I am at my wit’s end. I’m 31 years old and have been having a lot of problems with my teeth lately. I’ve had multiple cavities. I’ve always had some chips in my teeth. Now my dentist is suggesting that we pull a couple of teeth and give me partial dentures. I want him to fix them. He said that the shape my teeth are in there is not really a point. When I asked if there was something more permanent he didn’t really answer. I don’t know if there is something better. I also really think we could fix these teeth. Haven’t things improved in dentistry where we have better options than just dentures?
Dawn
Dear Dawn,
I’m going to answer your last question first. Yes, there have been incredible improvements in dentistry since the days where your only option was dentures. One example of getting something more permanent is pictured above. A dental implant can be placed into your jawbone and then a dental crown anchored to it. This is the closest thing to having a healthy, natural tooth in your mouth there is.
The next best option would be a dental bridge (pictured directly above). This places a crown on the two adjacent teeth and then suspends the false tooth between them. While it’s very likely your dentist doesn’t know how to place dental implants because they are an advanced procedure that requires extensive post doctoral instruction, I’m a bit surprised he didn’t bother to mention a dental bridge. That should be something every dentist knows how to do.
It sounds to me like you are up against a dentist who doesn’t enjoy working on teeth. He’d rather pull them. Dentists differ in the amount of work they are willing to put into saving a tooth. You are not with the best dentist for your situation.
Don’t pressure him to do a dental implant or you’ll end up with a horror story on your hands. In fact, I recommend that you get a second opinion on your teeth in general, especially the ones he’s recommending you get rid of. There is still a possibility that you can save them.
This blog is brought to you by a gentle dentist in Kalamazoo, Dr. Susan Dennis.