Periodontitis is a silent enemy! Why are dentures the worst solution?

Dr Anna Grabowska explains the consequences of tooth loss and why modern dental implants are nowadays the best way to permanently restore a smile.

A disease that silently destroys smiles

Periodontitis is one of the most common oral diseases among adult Poles. It often develops over years – almost symptom-free – until the teeth begin to loosen or fall out.
“Gums become loose, teeth shift position, and patients literally remove them with their fingers,” says Dr Grabowska.

The cause of periodontitis is not only inadequate hygiene, but also systemic factors, including hormonal changes in menopausal women, stress, and the natural ageing of tissues.
“With age, gums recede, and roots become exposed and sensitive. This makes daily oral hygiene more difficult, and bacteria gain easier access to deeper structures,” explains the expert.

Consequences of tooth loss – not just aesthetic

The loss of even a single tooth triggers a domino effect throughout the entire body. Teeth are like puzzle pieces – when one is missing, the remaining ones begin to shift, and the bone atrophies.
“Missing teeth are not just a cosmetic issue. The way you chew changes, leading to digestive disorders, temporomandibular joint pain, and even problems with posture and facial muscle tension,” emphasizes Dr Grabowska.

Over time, the face loses volume, the cheeks become sunken, and the smile no longer resembles what it once was. Patients often begin to avoid social gatherings, feeling embarrassment or discomfort when speaking.

Dentures – the worst solution in the long run

Although removable dentures were the standard for years, it is now known that they are not a good solution for oral health.
“Dentures literally compress the bone, causing its gradual atrophy. At first, they fit well, but over time they become loose, shift, and cause pain,” explains the doctor.

With each passing year, the denture fits worse and worse, requiring the use of adhesives or frequent replacement. Many patients wear them only occasionally – which further worsens the situation, as the lack of contact with the gum accelerates tissue loss.