Can having only lower six teeth affect jaw movements?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am wearing dentures for my missing upper teeth. I have only six lower teeth, which show up whenever I talk or smile. Also, my lower teeth are in front of my upper teeth.

Kindly advise.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I have reviewed your attachment (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity). Your jaw posture has shifted to an anterior chewing pattern because of the missing lower molar teeth on both sides. Right now, whenever you chew or speak, your lower jaw and the remaining natural front teeth come forward for support. This leads to a change in your chewing pattern and jaw posture.

The best option is to replace all your lower teeth with a denture. Therefore, you must undergo full mouth rehabilitation to regain your normal posture. You can also opt for fixed full mouth rehabilitation with implants.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.