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Can anyone dentist-y talk to me?

11 replies

Gincognito · 31/05/2012 21:56

Could anyone perhaps explain what the dentist might suggest in my situation?

I've developed a real aversion to going to the dentist, but it's getting to the point where I really need to go. I have not been for two years.

I was severely bulimic in my mid-20s and vomited multiple times a day for about a year. I saw a dentist while my bulimia was at its worst and he said my teeth were fine. Fast forward a few years and I am no longer vomiting (haven't for nearly three years). I still have food issues and eat an awful lot of sugary foods. I think it's catching up with my teeth :(

My teeth at the front - the top a bit and the bottom teeth more so - are becoming more and more sensitive, to the point that running my tongue across the tips of the bottom ones is uncomfortable and I avoid using those teeth to bite.

The bottom teeth are ridged - presumably the enamel is wearing away. Unfortunately I've taken a real head-in-the-sand approach. I've registered with a dentist but it would be so helpful to understand a bit about what the treatment options might be. Would veneers be possible perhaps? My teeth are so sensitive that I'm afraid of the scraping thing they do to check. Can I request this not be done? Am I going to need to spend a lot of money sorting this out?

Really grateful for any advice.

OP posts:
GiveTheAnarchistACigarette · 31/05/2012 22:23

This reply has been deleted

Message withdrawn at poster's request.

wild · 31/05/2012 22:26

It sounds like enamel erosion. I have veneers for the same problem and they worked well for me. Go now, it't not something you can put your head in the sand about.

Gincognito · 31/05/2012 22:30

Thanks Anarchist, that's a good tip about using an extra smear of toothpaste.

I know veneers are not the answer, but one thing I didn't mention in my OP is that my teeth look awful :( I have a young face, good skinn and the the teeth of someone twice my age...

OP posts:
Gincognito · 31/05/2012 22:32

Sorry about all the typos, multitasking in the bath

OP posts:
wild · 31/05/2012 22:32

why not veneers? a good job can last ages and at least they protect the dentine

Gincognito · 31/05/2012 22:39

Really? I guess I don't think I deserve nice looking teeth, not after the way I've treated them.

Veneers have to be done privately I assume? I'd be willing to look at finance to sort them out.

OP posts:
Gincognito · 01/06/2012 23:12

Bump...any dentists about?

OP posts:
Vanfurgstan · 02/06/2012 00:31

Oh gosh, you seem to be going through a lot with your teeth. Am very sorry about that. Most dentists are very sympathetic so please do book an appointment.

If sensitivity is the main problem your dentist may place a gel like varnish on your teeth, which has high flourish content, this will help with sensitivity. It is a very simple procedure. Hardly takes any time at all. Also they may prescribe a high fluoride toothpaste.

Veneers are an option if you want to change the appearance of your teeth, but it's important to control the erosive factors first. So avoid sugary and acidic drinks.

Do you grind or clench your teeth? That may contribute to faster wearing away of teeth.

Hope this helps somewhat.

Vanfurgstan · 02/06/2012 00:36

flourish fluoride

Gincognito · 02/06/2012 07:09

Thanks Van. I need to go back to the GP and discuss getting help for my eating. Yes, I do grind my teeth in my sleep when stressed :(

OP posts:
Vanfurgstan · 02/06/2012 10:12

Seems like you are in some stress as you said grinding is usually a manifestation of that. So while you are at the GP get some ideas for positive stress management. And do try to see a dentist as sensitivity at least can be take care of quickly. Best of luck

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