The edentulous patient: the impact of implants on quality of life

Edentulism (total tooth loss) can be managed with four possible options: no prosthetic replacement, conventional complete dentures, implant-retained overdentures (removable), or implant-supported bridgework (fixed). Selection of these choices is influenced by social, medical, anatomical, technical, and economic factors. The care team involved in the decision-making process (be it patients, clinicians and occasionally commissioners of services) should be aware of the different treatment options and their potential impact on the patient's quality of life (QoL). The cost effectiveness of this impact can also be evaluated. Knowledge of the life-long sequelae of edentulism will also help practitioners guide patients in their treatment planning decisions when they may be approaching an edentulous state, preparing them for the challenges that may lie ahead. This paper aims to address the impact that edentulism has on QoL and the treatment options, focusing on the patient perspective.