The last few times I’ve brushed my teeth, there has been blood. I also noticed that the gums of my lower teeth are pretty low, much lower than they should be. I looked this up on the internet and it sounds like I have gum disease. I have had a phobia of dentists. I know this needs to be taken care of but I’m a bit terrified. Do you know of anything that can help me?
Lindsey,
Dear Lindsey,
I am very glad you reached out and I feel quite confident I can help you. First, I will say that you are correct. It does sound like you have gum disease based on what you described. It is imperative you know that it is important you deal with this issue. If it is allowed to progress, you will end up losing your teeth. The good news is, this can be fixed. So, the next issue is how to get you comfortable in the dental chair.
I would like you to look for a sedation dentist in your area, specifically a dentist who offers oral conscious sedation. This is administered simply by you swallowing a pill. However, it is a seriously strong pill. You will need someone to drive you to and from your dental appointment, as well as stay with you for a little bit afterward until you are lucid and steady on your feet again.
Dentists who offer this service generally cater to patients with dental anxiety. There should not be any lectures or judgment that comes with the appointment. Instead, you’ll get a healthy smile and gums in a completely stress-free way.
Patients who spent years avoiding the dentist find that this completely changes their lives. You will feel completely different about your dental appointments.
I want to make certain that you don’t put this off. Gum disease is serious. I am still hopeful that you will be able to save your bottom teeth, but if your gums are as far down as it sounds, I’d like you to get in as soon as possible.
Don’t panic if they cannot be saved. There is a way to replace them that is just like having healthy, natural teeth. My recommendation would be dental implants as the best replacement, though you may need some bone grafting first. Hopefully, none of that will be necessary and the sedation dentist you choose will save all of your teeth.
This blog is brought to you by West Seneca Dentist Dr. Warren Krutchick.