Q. Hi I am 30 years old and had a plate put in about 5 years ago to cover 4 missing teeth in my front lower jaw. This was due to very poor oral hygiene on my part when I was growing up. There was a concern at the time that one of the teeth the plate anchors onto was also weak. Unfortunately, that tooth is now due to be removed. I do smoke about 2 cigarettes a day (trying to quit), I brush regularly and only drink water and try my best to avoid sugar as a result of all this but I feel as though I’m fighting a losing battle and I don’t want to lose anymore teeth. The plate can hurt when eating food and it is difficult to take in and out every day. I spoke with a consultant at the NHS yesterday and he was totally dismissive of the idea of implants. I know I would have to go private, that’s not a problem, but he told me not to bother wasting my money. I am concerned, however, that the plate is putting pressure on my other teeth and is causing me too much discomfort. I’m desperate to get this sorted out and I wanted to get a second opinion. I realise you’re a leading expert in this field and I was wondering if you could offer me any advice as to the best course of action? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Yours,
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