Edentulous describes the state of lacking teeth. This condition can be a natural occurrence in certain animal species or a result of tooth loss, whether from disease, injury, or advanced age. In humans, becoming edentulous is often associated with aging, though it can also stem from poor oral hygiene, severe gum disease (periodontitis), or accidents. Being edentulous significantly impacts an individual's ability to chew and digest food effectively, potentially leading to nutritional deficiencies and affecting overall health. Modern dentistry offers various solutions, such as dentures and dental implants, to restore oral function and aesthetics for edentulous patients.
Edentulous meaning with examples
- The elderly patient, after years of battling gum disease, became edentulous, requiring full dentures to maintain a semblance of normal chewing ability. This transition forced her to adapt her diet, favoring softer foods and supplements.
- Veterinarians sometimes encounter edentulous animals, particularly in older dogs and cats. In these cases, specialized diets and careful feeding techniques are crucial to ensure the pets receive adequate nutrition and can comfortably consume their food.
- The archaeologists unearthed the skeletal remains of a woman who, judging by the completely edentulous jawbone, had likely lived well into old age, though the cause of her tooth loss remained unknown.
- While examining the x-rays, the dentist confirmed that the extensive decay and advanced periodontal disease would render the patient eventually edentulous. This news prompted her to consider advanced restorative options.