For the past 17 years since I gave birth to my teenage son I’ve struggled with an eating disorder. Thanks to an understanding psychiatrist and prescription medication I am finally managing it instead of letting it control me. Due to the disorder for years I have vomited every day throughout the day. The result is teeth that have deteriorated and are crumbling away. I now need dentures Just when I’m trying to get my self esteem back I am finding it difficult to smile, even though I am happier than ever now.
My teeth look horrible. I’ve lost 8 or 9 teeth already and my dentist says that it will be difficult or impossible to save about 9 more. I don’t think I’ll have any teeth left. Money is a problem. The bills from trying to recover from the disorder are stacked up. We have a young son at home that I must home school, so work is not much of an option for me. I am 42 years old now and am fighting depression with the thought of needing dentures. I think it is three times in the past two weeks that I heard conversations about false teeth. Better than no teeth at all but who really wants false teeth.
I have read enough to know that dental implants, not dentures, are the best way to replace my teeth but I could never afford them. Am I out of options? – Name withheld
Dear anonymous reader,
If you have a very limited budget, dentures may be your only option. The good news is that if you receive dentures, a cosmetic dentist can give you a smile with dentures that reflects your personality and that looks natural—instead of looking like false teeth as you mentioned.
If you have your natural lower teeth, it’s best for the dentist to save as many of them as possible. Keeping your lower teeth will help delay the jawbone shrinkage and facial collapse that occur when all of your teeth are missing, including if you have dentures.
An upper denture is kept in place by suction, so it is more stable than a lower denture. A lower denture can slip or fall out easier. Your lower natural teeth are likely to last longer if they are chewing against an upper denture.
A caring cosmetic dentist will discuss your options with you. Many cosmetic dentists offer a complimentary consultation. Meet with a few of them to find one that you’re comfortable with. You’ll find some comfort in knowing that you can get a natural-looking new smile, even if it is with dentures.
We suggest that you find two or three experienced cosmetic dentists and schedule a consultation with each of them. Ask questions about dentures and dental implants, and how treatment can be made affordable for you.
This post is sponsored by Bedminster, NJ cosmetic dentist Dr. Allyson Hurley. Bedminster is located in Somerset County, North Jersey.