Q. Hi, I have always been frightened of the dentist through a bad experience as a child. 2 years ago I plucked up the courage and went to see a p rivate dentist who done a temp bridge but I had to have loads of sessions with the hygenist due to a problem with my gums. I had gum disease which my mother also had so I think it is something hereditory. After months and months of treatemnt with the hygenist I couldn’t afford to keep going and my gums were getting better but if I stopped going to the hygenist it would come back no matter how much I followed her instructions but then I had to go and work away, I am due home and will probably start treatment again but I am wondering how long should it possibly take as there is nothing that she hasn’t done and until she gives the go ahead then they wont replace the temp crown which is now getting quite discoloured. What do you think I should do as this effects my whole appearance and I am so desperate to have my front teeth sorted out.