AIBU to really not want to go to the dentist

[crankysaurus]

I've put it off for years but will have to call this week as I have a tooth that really ought to come out. I've had so much dental work over the years, not relishing the idea of going at all.

Haven't a clue about false teeth or anything or do I just live with a gap? Might become gaps, think there's a couple more lining up to come out in the not too distant future.

It's perfectly possible to live with a gap or gaps, though depending which teeth they are, you might want to consider a bridge or an implant. Gaps can cause other teeth eventually to come out of line, which may cause more problems later on. The dentist will be able to advise you, but you don't have to make a decision immediately.

Also, YANBU not to want to go, but you would be unreasonable not to go. No one wants to go to the dentist but we still have to.

Depends.

My mum had one repaired and a crown fitted recently after a root canal, went great and can't see the difference from her other teeth.

If it needs to come out you have two options. First, is a bridge. Basically a false tooth which is anchored to the surrounding teeth and fits into place. The second, if you are private, is to have an implant put in as long as there hasn't been significant bone loss.

I feel for you, I hate the dentist as well. Had some horrible experiences when I was having orthodontics done. I hope everything goes great for you. You can do it!!

Ok. You need to go and get these teeth looked at - otherwise you may end up with a painful infection
You can discuss what’s going to fill the gaps while you’re there
There’s several options but you need to find out what they are and how much it will cost

You’ll be fine

Why is everyone so ridiculous about going to the dentist?
Apart from the cost it's not as if they are going to use hammers!! It's totally painless due to modern anaesthetics.
People just let their teeth rot out of their heads rather than go for a painless treatment.
Depends where the gap is. Last one I had near the front I got a cheap implant. There is a clinic I go to who does implants for less than 1k. Or you can get a bridge on the NHS.

Painless? Hardly. The local anaesthetic injections are anything but painless.

It's not just the pain though - as soon as the dentist starts poking around my back teeth, it triggers an uncontrollable gag reflex in me. I have never been able to have dental x rays taken because of this reflex. I can't tolerate the plates even at the front of the mouth.

I can quite understand why people are "ridiculous" about going to the dentist

Anaesthetic hasn't always worked for me, I typically have two injections worth now but it's not always been a comfortable experience. And I've had a lot of visits over the years, root canals, many fillings and teeth out when I was younger for orthodontist work.

I know I need to go and thanks all for the reassurance and gin! Will see what they suggest about bridges etc.