There are some dreams that seem to happen to everyone at some point, from the humiliating (homeroom, no pants) to the surreal (flying over rooftops). We usually laugh these dreams off, but what about the unsettling dream—nightmare, even—in which your teeth fall out? At Modern Dentistry of Shrewsbury, we don’t really consider ourselves expert dream interpreters, but it’s interesting to see what others have to say about his particular dream. Dr. Todd Pizzi, a general and cosmetic dentist in Shrewsbury, MA, shares interesting interpretations.
Adult Tooth Loss; A Real Nightmare
Isn’t it a relief to wake up from a bad dream? Unfortunately, the complications that come with tooth loss are far more difficult to live with. Losing teeth, whether due to periodontal disease, decay, or teeth grinding, has several effects on your oral health:
- Surrounding teeth are subjected to greater stress, making them more likely to crack or chip.
- The bite may become misaligned, leading to painful TMJ disorders.
- Dental prosthetics are necessary to restore the beauty and function of your teeth and smile.
- The cost of necessary restorative dental work can reach several thousand dollars.
Preventing Tooth Loss
The fact that you’re aging doesn’t mean you’re condemned to lose your teeth. Following the recommended guidelines for oral hygiene and preventive dental care ensures that your teeth serve their intended purpose for life. Consider the leading cause of adult tooth loss: gum disease. Periodontal disease screening is included in your twice-yearly dental checkup. This infection of the gums is largely preventable with diligent oral care. You should brush your teeth two times each day, spending two minutes per session. Floss at least once per day, and use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce your risk of tooth decay, bad breath, and gum disease.
What Does the Tooth Loss Dream Mean?
According to World of Dream Symbols, losing teeth in a dream suggests anxiety about some significant aspect of your life, such as your job, relationship, or school. The more obvious interpretation is a feeling of self-consciousness about your physical appearance. Not everyone loses teeth in their dreams, however. Some people actually dream about perfectly straight, white teeth—not necessarily their own. This can be construed as the opposite of anxiety: satisfaction and contentment with something in your life.
Spare yourself the tooth loss nightmare. To learn more about preventing tooth loss, or to schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, contact us at (508) 842-8838. We offer preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry for residents of Shrewsbury, Boylston, North and South Grafton, Hopkinton, and the surrounding communities.
