I’ve just finished my third round of chemo and my mouth is a mess. One of my teeth is even being extracted because it is a total loss. I feel stupid. I should have done better, but was so sick all the time from treatments, I felt like I was barely functioning. I’m just starting to look into options. I want a smile I can be proud of again. My sister really likes your practice and I wondered what you’d recommend.
Cameron
Dear Cameron,
Don’t be too hard on yourself. Even people who have never had a cavity in their lifetime, struggle with their teeth after cancer treatments. The treatments make you more susceptible to decay. Plus, it causes dry mouth which keeps you from the protective minerals in your saliva.
It’s no wonder with all that going on you will end up with some damage to your teeth. Hopefully, you are completely done with your treatments. If, however, you end up with another or know some others going through treatments, it is helpful if your dentist gives you some prescription fluoride as well as something to help with dry mouth. It won’t completely protect you but it does help.
Dental Implants: The Ideal Tooth Replacement
If you are looking for the best tooth replacement option, dental implants are the top of the line. They are like having a healthy, natural tooth again. This is because they mimic your major tooth anatomy, giving you both a root and a crown.
It is important you go to see a qualified implant dentist. They need to have had post-doctoral training in the procedure.
Choosing the Color of Your Dental Implant Crown
On top of your dental implant is usually placed a porcelain crown. Your dentist can make the crown any color you want. He or she can just match it to your natural teeth or if you want whiter teeth, you can get them whitened and then the dentist can match the crown to that color.
Just make sure you do the teeth whitening first. The color of the crown is permanent. It won’t whiten with your teeth.
This blog is brought to you by Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Susan Dennis of Portage, Michigan.