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Original poster

To want all my teeth removed? (Trigger warning, suicide mentioned)

137 replies

CureTheToothPain · 19/01/2022 20:00

I’m early 30s. Get nagged by the dentist everytime I go because my teeth are rotting and crumbling. I have so many fillings and half teeth, but had none removed yet, a few have fallen out though.

I get pain daily in my cheeks and lower jaw and have done for some time.

I brush 3 times a day (after the dentist told me to) but still get the pain, I also floss and use mouthwash.

I get sinus issues- caused by hayfever and allergies in spring and summer and the cold in winter, so that’s likely why my top teeth have so many problems.

I’m also on inhalers for asthma which I’m told are terrible for teeth.

I have near daily paracetamol and I’ve ended up in hospital on morphine and tramadol before the pain is that bad.

Some days it hurts to eat so I don’t.

I’ve been looking at dentures, and I’m seriously considering having all of my teeth (or at least my top ones) removed and using a denture. It would save the 6 monthly nag from the dentist who doesn’t seem to get that I’m doing everything they’ve told me to do and I’m still likely to lose all my teeth before I’m 40, it would save me being kept awake from hunger because I’d be able to eat.

It would basically save my life because I am in so much pain sometimes I’d be better off dead.

Is this something that can be done? I’d obviously rather have my natural teeth but I’m in so much pain near enough daily that I think I’d be better without them.

OP posts:
UniversalAunt · 19/01/2022 20:47

It sounds like you need to see a specialist dentist.

Go see your GP & explain exactly what has happened with the dentist, that the meds you need for your asthma may be affecting the integrity of your teeth. Particularly the amount of pain you have & the amount of painkillers you take. You need to see a specialist at the dental hospital.

You need an in depth medical assessment to work out what is going on.

moggiek · 19/01/2022 20:48

I lost my teeth gradually over a number of years (a genetic problem, my mum was the same and made sure that I took care of my teeth, sadly to no avail). I have had full upper and lower dentures for the last 30 years, but I can still remember the constant pain of toothache!!

CurtailingChaos · 19/01/2022 20:48

Are you brushing them too much/too hard? You also shouldn’t brush after food as your mouth is more acidic then so you brush the enamel away causing problems.

The serious effects of overbrushing
Brushing regularly is vital for healthy teeth and gums, but dental experts warn that you can overdo a good thing. Known as “toothbrush abrasion,” overbrushing can lead to sensitive teeth and receding gums. When you brush too hard, you can wear down the outer layer of your teeth

honeyfox · 19/01/2022 20:48

I've been using asthma inhalers for 34 years now, every dentist I've had has known that and this is the first time I've ever heard of them affecting teeth in such a serious way.

It could well be genetic or a condition but you need to get sorted somehow, it's no way to live. Do you have a university dental hospital nearby, sometimes they have an A&E that is free or subsidised?

Mamamia344 · 19/01/2022 20:49

@RobertSmithsLipstick

I've been having a really dry mouth for a couple of years, and it seems to have exacerbated my tooth problems.
Yess same here as I have developed Sjogrens syndrome and every 6 months I need more fillings and crowns. The hygienist says I clean perfectly and I keep a strict routine.
spaghettiyeti · 19/01/2022 20:49

Are you rinsing your mouth with water then spitting it out after you have taken your asthma meds, OP? I take a variety and this is drummed into me frequently, every time I collect my Ventolin etc from the pharmacist.

There was another Mner a while ago who posted about this issue too, she had all of her teeth removed. I wonder if I can try & locate her post.

NorthernLighting · 19/01/2022 20:51

@Houseofvelour

DH is a dentist and this is his take on it:

"Never ever ever have all teeth removed at an early age. Try to keep all canines and at least one molar tooth in each quarter.
Without teeth bone shrinks away, especially if teeth are removed at a young age so when you're 60, there won't be much bone there to keep dentures in and you'll likely be stuck with no teeth at all.
The cause of the daily pain needs to be investigated as it could be an underlying condition or could even be psychological.
There are different causes of pain. It could be from the teeth, other nerves or something else.
It needs to be looked into before removing any teeth as you could have them all removed but still be in pain.
Dentures of course can be done privately but they're very rarely a first choice when you're young."

Good and useful reply.
OnTheBoardwalk · 19/01/2022 20:52

Can you change to another dentist at the practice rather than finding a totally new one?

Due to number of factors my mum ended up having all her teeth out early 40's. She's struggled ever since with dentures. She can’t afford veneers but has spent a small fortune over the years trying to get a good fit and is still in pain when she hasn’t got one

I brush and use the tape brushes daily. If I go even a couple of days without the brushes I get bleeding gums again

Only thing apart from the tepe brushes that help me keep on top of my teeth is hygienist appointments every 3 months. Coats £40 a time but helps me stay on top of my teeth and gums

MeridasMum · 19/01/2022 20:52

Have you considered dental implants OP? They are incredibly expensive, however, if it's affordable for you, it might be worth looking into

Original poster
CureTheToothPain · 19/01/2022 20:54

@EmmaH2022

"I get pain daily in my cheeks and lower jaw and have done for some time."

Do you grind your teeth or clench your jaw?

Also, have you stuck with the one dentist? Sadly, there are some real con artists around so just wondered.

@EmmaH2022 I'm registered at my nearest NHS dentist and have been registered there for since I was 16, but I've never seen the same dentist more than 3 times before I see someone new. Sometimes I've seen them once then never again.
OP posts:
sansucre · 19/01/2022 20:55

@RobertSmithsLipstick

I've been having a really dry mouth for a couple of years, and it seems to have exacerbated my tooth problems.
The lack of saliva allows more plaque to form and your gums to recede which exposes more tooth to possible decay.

Short term, buy Biotene mouthwash as it really helps with dry mouth.
Long term, get your hormones looked at as dry mouth can be symbiotic of low oestrogen levels. Frustratingly, it is rare for doctors or dentists to make this connection but it is something that happens to many women, particularly as they age/hit perimenopause/menopause.

OP - my dad had bad teeth and had them all removed in his 30s and wore dentures. It was actually quite a common thing to do at one point.

Yuppie20 · 19/01/2022 20:56

My friend who has just turned 30 has exactly the same problem. It got worse after every pregnancy and turned out after her then 6yr old daughter had to have a couple of her teeth removed it was a genetic condition that made her teeth like that. She currently has a bridge but the rest of her top teeth are getting pulled in the next few months and she is getting a denture fitted. She cannot wait!!

Laney39 · 19/01/2022 20:57

My teeth were bad, gums receding. I use the tepe brushes daily and I bought a water flosser. It's slowed the damage down and would be better than cleaning 3 times, maybe try the water flosser in place of a brush?

thegreenlight · 19/01/2022 20:58

To make you feel better, my dad had all his top teeth removed in his 20s (at the top of Kilimanjaro while in the army!) his was due to damage when at school which was not dealt with properly leading to massive infection. He is now 83 and I always just assumed that he had perfect teeth! I would never know he had them - he even slept in them and must have taken them out to clean twice a day. He’s had no problem with dentures not fitting in all this time. I only found out he had them in my teens when he told me!

TheCloudsHavePassed · 19/01/2022 21:00

I also know someone that had this done. If I was in you position I would definitely ask. I'm really sorry OP, it's horrible to read how much pain you are in. I hope you find a solution.

RobertSmithsLipstick · 19/01/2022 21:01

Thank you.
I'll get some of that mouthwash.
I'm also seeing a rheumatologist for some sort of auto immune, as yet undiagnosed issue.
(Not sjogrens, though)

Tavelo · 19/01/2022 21:01

op a lot of dentists don't know this but weak teeth can be a major symptom of coeliac disease (a reaction to gluten) it's very common and massively undiagnosed.

Noway100 · 19/01/2022 21:03

OP: 'I'm registered at my nearest NHS dentist and have been registered there for since I was 16, but I've never seen the same dentist more than 3 times before I see someone new. Sometimes I've seen them once then never again."

This is your issue, the lack of continuity of care from inexperienced Associate NHS dentists. You need to see a caring private dentist who can take your concerns seriously and save your teeth. Good luck.

SnowDropMania · 19/01/2022 21:03

Could you have them capped. I've had 2 of mine capped since I was 9 and it's fine

opalescent · 19/01/2022 21:05

I sympathise so much - I'm 30s, and have chronic issues with my teeth, caused by clenching and grinding at night.
At one time I used to wish that I could have all my teeth removed, because like you, I am in daily pain or discomfort.
I now know though, that loss of teeth prematurely can cause a host of other issue- it absolutely isn't a free pass out of the situation.

I have had to push HARD via both my GP and dentist to be referred on for specialist support for my issues- I honestly would urge you to do the same.

Foxyloxy1plus1 · 19/01/2022 21:06

Some people have a predisposition to teeth problems, just as some have a predisposition to diabetes or asthma, or other conditions. Genetics plays a part too.

I know of people who barely visit the dentist, drink Coke and fizzy drinks and aren’t careful with oral hygiene, yet have all their teeth and few fillings. Others do everything- clean their teeth using the recommended electric toothbrush, use floss and interdental brushes, edge brushes and everything you’re told to do, but always have problems. Yes, it’s obvious dentists often don’t believe you when you tell them your routine. I find that very offensive.

Whatwouldnanado · 19/01/2022 21:11

Were you on steroids or lots of antibiotics as a child? My friend who suffered allergies, eczema and asthma was, and the enamel on her teeth was seriously affected. Get a referral to a specialist if you can, seems more going on here than just decay.

LillethCrane · 19/01/2022 21:14

I really feel for you. I have dreadful teeth (three extractions, two crowns, fillings in over half my teeth by my early 30s…) and I remember the dentist telling me I had the worst teeth he’d seen of someone by ageSad. I was so ashamed and humiliated. I’ve brushed my teeth twice a day all my life, flossed, reduced sugar etc I’ve no idea why they are so bad. I hate going to the dentist now because I feel so embarrassed. I still go every six months of course but it causes huge anxiety.

If I had pain too like you do OP, I’d be considering dentures too. I hope you can get some answers as that level of pain sounds horrendous.

blessedbethechocolate · 19/01/2022 21:14

My mums teeth crumbled after having children. It turned out to be a calcium problem from pregnancy.

Original poster
CureTheToothPain · 19/01/2022 21:14

@Whatwouldnanado

Were you on steroids or lots of antibiotics as a child? My friend who suffered allergies, eczema and asthma was, and the enamel on her teeth was seriously affected. Get a referral to a specialist if you can, seems more going on here than just decay.
@Whatwouldnanado My asthma put me in hospital a lot as a child so I assume I was on steriods.
OP posts: