Bad teeth

[flashpig]

I have spent a few years ignoring my teeth. I have had some awful dental hygiene, and it is starting to really show.

I have dark stains between my teeth and black spots and small holes on them. They are revolting.

It has got to the point where I am scared to go tothe dentist, because I know there's going to be no good side. But at the same time I am constantly anxious about them. I've stopped eating boiled or chewy sweets just in case they fall apart or bits come off.

What I'm wondering is - what is the best that could be done? What is the worst that could happen (could I end up toothless)? If it's possible to make my teeth as good as new how much would it cost?

I'm guessing it would be a 'tear it down and start again' thing. I look forward to any answers, I'm constantly feeling nervous and guilty that I've ever let it get this bad.

[flashpig]

And if it makes any difference to your answers, I'm in England so would be interested to know what would be covered by NHS,and what might be private treatment, and costs of these.

[terambulan]

Only a dentist can tell you. The corrective work dentists can perform is amazing so dont be afraid.......they've seen worse teeth than yours.

The longer u neglect ur teeth the worse they'll get.

R u losing weight because of your teeth? How many people would love that scenario?

[FoxLee2]

We're not dentists so how can we make a diagnosis. You don't say that you're experiencing any dental pain so that must surely be a good thing. If serious things were happening to your teeth, wouldn't that be causing you pain. It may just be a case of seeing the dental hygienist for a good clean up but the only way to find out is to make an appointment with a dentist. You're not going to wake up tomorrow and find that everything is sorted so you need to tackle your problem head on and then things can start to be better. Good Luck,

[Lakitu]

Well, firstly if you manage to get the work you need done on the NHS then I doff my cap to you.

If they're as bad as you say they are then it sounds like they're rotting and they will eventually just fall out.

As far as I know, and other can correct me if I'm wrong, then you have the option of either dentures or you can go down the veneers route.

Dentures are far less expensive than veneers. Dentures are removeable, veneers are not. There's pros and cons to both really.

You're best making an appointment with your dentist just for a consultation about what your options may be and you can take it from there.

[flashpig]

Well, rotting feels like it might be an accurate description.
As for pain, I have no memory of what normal is meant to feel like. No obvious pain. It doesn't feel like I imagine is right.
My weight is good I think. Fairly unchanging.

[firetracie]

Hi flash! Get an appointment at an NHS dentist and go and see.

I'm terrified of dentists - have been since a very bad experience at 11 yrs old - but my NHS dentist is fantastic and although I get scared as h3ll he knows it and is very patient.

Most damage to your teeth can be repaired - the stains will disappear with a scale & polish (a doddle - even for the terrified) the black spots and holes will probably need fillings, but you can have fillings to match the colour of your teeth on any of the front ones (done as standard even on the NHS if they're visible). Any fillings to the back teeth will be the basic silver coloured but they'll prevent any further decay.

The most common cause of tooth loss is gum disease which is caused by poor dental hygiene. Please see a dentist and get the remedial work done. You can stage your treatment and get it done over a period of time if cost is an issue.

I'm not giving this a personal recommendation because I've only just joined but Tesco are doing a dental insurance package which reimburses in full the cost of either private or NHS treatment (you have to stipulate which you have as it sets your premium). Check the T&C's but I think it would be worth looking at in your case as whatever it costs you will probably get back.

Good luck.

[andy-hughes]

As I am sure you are aware, dedlaying treatment is prolonging the inevtiabe, and it is only goiong to get worse.

Make an appointment and see what your dentist has to say. You will probably need several visits to get your teeth properly in order. If you are phobic, ask if you can have a diazepam prescription - just a 5mg tablet will relax you enough to be able to be treated without worrying.

I do sympethise, I neglected my teeh for years, and did loose two when I eventually went. All the rest were saved and serviced, and I have been treatment-free for three years now - it really is worth it, believe me!

[sexysnowminx]

Hi Flashpig,

My advice would be to go see your dentist straight away. I know your scared, but the longer you leave it, the worse it will get.

The dentist is the best place for you as they will advise you on what you can do to make your teeth better.

In the mean time, try a good mouth wash. Just to look atfter them a bit better as brushing may hurt or cause more damage.

I hope this helps.
I knwo things are easier said than done, but don't feel nervous, the dentist will be there to help and just be honest about how you feel by it, i'm sure the dentist will understand.

Good LucK
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