I have advanced Periodontitis, are dentures my best option?

Q.
Hi
I have advanced Periodontitis and have been told that the pockets after having treatment for three years are still 12mm + deep in some areas. The shift in my teeth is quite horrendous especially the two front teeth which now have huge gaps between them and jut out quite badly so the bite is off. Its very embarrassing for me, once a gummy woman, now a long toothy one embarrassed to smile.

My dentist has told me that I could have the two front teeth (possible the ones either side) removed and to replace them with a partial chrome plate denture. I’m wondering whether there are other alternatives and if this is the right move at this stage?

Also if going down the road of having teeth extracted, wouldn’t a bridge work the same way and isn’t this available on the NHS? Won’t having a chrome partial denture affect the cleaning of the teeth?

I know that the bone in my jaw is not in good shape, so even if I had the money, implants wouldn’t be an option.

I am left with awful jutting teeth, with huge gaps and gums which seem to be disintegrating even though I try hard every day to keep on top of my health routine. Please can you tell me what the best options are? I’m worried I may make the wrong choice and have to live with being toothless.

Thank you

A.
If implants are not an option for you, it does sound like the best option would be a partial denture. Chrome dentures are very good as they are metal so they are hard wearing and last a long time, they are also generally more comfortable.

In regards to keeping your other teeth clean when you have a denture, this isn’t a problem. Because dentures and plates are removable, you can remove it to clean all your other teeth morning and night. You always remove a denture before you go to sleep and don’t put it back in until after you have brushed your teeth in the morning.

I would recommend you go and see a periodontist regarding your periodontal problems to assess if you need any perio treatment for your remaining teeth.

Dr Mark Hughes Harley Street Dental Studio 52 Harley Street, London W1G 9PY Web: www.harleystreetdentalstudio.com Tel: 020 7636 5981 View My Profile Dr Hughes

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