A pioneering study by the University of Sheffield’s Healthy Life Span Institute and School of Clinical Dentistry has uncovered the profound emotional distress that often accompanies tooth loss. The research reveals that the psychological impact of tooth loss can be just as debilitating as the physical effects, highlighting the importance of holistic care that addresses the emotional and mental well-being of patients, in addition to their clinical needs.
This research was the first of its kind to map out the patient journey, and revealed the complex interplay between physical discomfort and psychological distress that can significantly impact the overall success of dental treatments.
But, in today’s world, where dental care has improved and people are living longer, there’s an increasing emphasis on maintaining a healthy smile.
While more individuals are keeping their natural teeth for extended periods, there’s also a growing need for restorative work such as crowns, bridges, and implants.
However, the accessibility of these treatments remains limited due to the scarcity of dentists in some regions and/or the high costs associated with private dental care.
As a result, removable dentures often become the only viable option for those experiencing tooth loss, with an estimated 10 to 15 percent of the population relying on them.
Findings of the Study
The study identified four distinct stages in the patient’s denture journey:
- Tooth Loss: The initial physical loss of a tooth or multiple teeth marks the beginning of this emotional rollercoaster.
- The Emotional Tunnel: Patients experience a whirlwind of emotions, including self-consciousness, depression, shame, anger, and fear. However, amidst these challenging feelings, a glimmer of hope often emerges.
- Prosthetic Hope: This stage is characterized by optimism as patients anticipate regaining their smile and ability to eat normally with their new dentures.
- Prosthetic Compromise and Managing Disclosure: The final stage involves adjusting expectations and learning to navigate daily activities with dentures. Patients also develop strategies for feeling comfortable disclosing their denture use to others.
The research highlights the crucial role of dentists in understanding and managing these emotional stages. Empathy from dental professionals during the adjustment period strongly facilitates successful denture use and improved patient outcomes.
One of the most striking findings of the study is the revelation that wearing removable dentures can be a hidden disability for many individuals. Patients often feel compelled to conceal their dentures due to embarrassment or fear of them falling out. This anxiety can lead to social isolation, with some patients avoiding social situations altogether.
Professor Barry Gibson, the lead researcher, emphasized the traumatic nature of tooth loss and the challenges faced by those needing partial dentures. He noted that feelings of embarrassment or shame could significantly impact the process of having dentures made and fitted. Moreover, ill-fitting dentures can make everyday activities such as speaking, eating, and drinking significantly harder, severely affecting a person’s quality of life.
In some cases, the impact is so profound that it can erode an individual’s confidence to leave their home, potentially leading to long-lasting psychological effects.
The Research Team Collaborated with Artist Gina Allen
In a unique creative collaboration, the research team partnered with Sheffield-based artist Gina Allen to visually capture the complex emotional landscapes of denture wearers. The stunning artwork that emerged is a dynamic collage, bursting with color and energy, which poignantly conveys the wide range of emotions and experiences that patients face, from the initial shock of tooth loss to the ultimate acceptance and adaptation to life with dentures.
Using color to depict the emotional nature of the journey, the piece demonstrates that each patient’s experience is unique. It portrays different outcomes: a young woman with a successful experience, a middle-aged man with a neutral outcome, and an older woman who continues to struggle with adapting to her denture.
This innovative approach to understanding patient experiences has led to the development of a new patient questionnaire. This tool aims to identify patient’s needs, improve communication between dentists and patients, and trigger follow-up support for those who may require additional assistance.
The study’s findings extend beyond emotional challenges, highlighting the need for a comprehensive clinical care pathway. This new pathway will be focusing on improving denture fit, educating patients about proper denture care, and addressing the shame and stigma that could be associated with wearing dentures.
Mr. Bilal El-Dhuwaib, Clinical Teacher in Restorative Dentistry at the University of Sheffield, hailed this innovative research as a game-changer in dentistry, bridging the gap between clinical expertise and emotional intelligence. By exploring the complex emotional terrain of tooth loss and its aftermath, this study empowers dental professionals to deliver more compassionate and holistic care, transcending mere technical proficiency to address the unique needs and experiences of each patient, and ultimately, revolutionizing the art of tooth replacement.
The research has unveiled the hidden emotional challenges faced by patients following tooth loss and by mapping out the patient journey and identifying key emotional stages, the study provides a framework for improving dental care and patient outcomes.
As the dental profession continues to evolve, understanding and addressing these psychological aspects of tooth loss and replacement will be crucial in providing holistic, patient-centered care.