The relationship between posterior tooth loss and functional oral rehabilitation

Authors

  • Vanessa Barbosa Dias Faculdade Unigranrio/Afya, Duque de Caxias, RJ, Brasil
  • Vilmara Procópio Castro Faculdade Unigranrio/Afya, Duque de Caxias, RJ, Brasil
  • Patricia de Hollanda Cavalcanti Aragão Costa Faculdade Unigranrio/Afya, Duque de Caxias, RJ, Brasil

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.22491/1983-7550-52-2-R3

Keywords:

Tooth loss, Dental prosthesis, Dental implant, Chewing, Chewing function, Oral health

Abstract

The loss of posterior teeth significantly impairs masticatory function, occlusion, and patients’ quality of life, potentially leading to bone resorption and nutritional difficulties. Oral rehabilitation is essential to restore these functions. Various techniques have been employed, such as fixed, removable, and implant-supported prostheses. The choice of approach depends on factors such as the extent of tooth loss, bone condition, and patient needs. This study aimed to analyze the clinical implications of posterior tooth loss and the main available oral rehabilitation techniques. A descriptive and qualitative literature review was conducted based on the analysis of recent scientific articles on the subject. Results showed that the absence of posterior teeth overloads the remaining teeth, causes progressive bone resorption, and impairs aesthetics and function. Among rehabilitation techniques, dental implants demonstrated superior efficacy in bone preservation and functional stability, whereas removable prostheses remain widely used due to their accessibility and applicability in patients with bone or financial restrictions. The choice of rehabilitation technique should be individualized considering clinical and socioeconomic factors. Advances in materials and dental technologies have enabled more efficient rehabilitations, contributing to the improvement of patients’ quality of life.

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Published

2025-10-22

How to Cite

The relationship between posterior tooth loss and functional oral rehabilitation. (2025). Naval Dental Jounal, 52(2). https://doi.org/10.22491/1983-7550-52-2-R3

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