Q.
Do you happen to know if dental students (or NHS) require anyone to practice fitting a full top jawbone of implants? I was a Police officer who lost most of my top jawbone teeth trying to break up a large fight (resulting from an assault) when a group turned on my colleague and me. I was fitted with a bridge, as I was unable to cope with a plate (I could not stop gagging, was unable to speak properly, and lost a serious amount of weight during that time). Many years later, I broke my back (representing my country in the high jump) and required to lay flat for over ten years (obviously in that time unable to have dental treatment).
Nowadays, I am at least on crutches (having had a spinal stimulator fitted, albeit a faulty one)but my back used to ‘go’ quite frequently and having fallen quite a few times my bridge got broken, not to mention all the cuts and bruises. I am utterly terrified of having a full denture and simply cannot afford to have any dental treatment (probably other than a plate) as I am on disability allowance; therefore, I have been attempting ‘home’ dentistry. One of the teeth that held one side of the bridge, I drilled into and fitted with a post (part of a metal coat hanger) whilst the other tooth I super glued but unfortunately I am required to redo them maybe once/twice a week. I know this is not good, not to mention the fumes when I have to use the glue (I can feel it filling my lungs).
All I want is to be able to eat reasonably and have a nice smile again. I am just so paranoid of people looking at my teeth I do not leave the house at all in case I have to speak or feel the need to smile (serious self-esteem issues).
Do you happen to know of anyone who would/could help me in any way?
I would be eternally grateful!
Best regards,