I’m about to turn 40 and at a check-up last year I was unexpectedly told I had gum disease. The 6 month check-up prior to that one hadn’t raised any concerns so it must have been a rapid onset.
I had been having bleeding gums but I am anaemic and I was told bleeding gums can be associated with that so I hadn’t been overly concerned.
The news obviously upset me and I was referred to a hygienist who I have seen three times in the last year.
My latest appointment with the hygienist was yesterday (I saw her and had my 6 monthly check-up with my dentist at the same time) and they both said my oral hygiene is fantastic and there is nothing wrong with my teeth but that the gum disease is concerning. The hygienist said it’s far more stable than it was this last time last year (due to seeing her 4 monthly and a rigorous oral hygiene routine at home) but they still want me to be seen by a specialist for a “second opinion”. Apparently I have bone loss in more than one area and one of my teeth is getting loose.
So I’ve been referred to a Periodontist who I’m seeing next month.
I’m feeling really upset and absolutely terrified.
There is a family history of gum disease, I’m on a medication that can affect gum health and I’m currently going through a very stressful period of life which I was told yesterday can also increase the likelihood of gum disease.
My dentist said yesterday that I may require some “intervention” but I was too scared to ask what that meant.
I am terrified of the dentist, I have no idea how I’ve coped with the regular and unpleasant appointments over the last year, and all this is concern over my gums is causing my anxiety to spiral.
Does anyone have any experience of this and could offer me some reassurance? Or share your story?
Thank you.