How to Keep Your Jaw Intact with Dentures
Posted by writeradmin
I am in my late 30s and have just been told that I should have all of my teeth extracted. I was recently diagnosed with a severe calcium deficiency. My dentist said that would explain why he’s always having to work on my teeth. As a result of the diagnosis, he think my best option is to extract my teeth and get dentures. I have been looking into it and there seems to be a complication with this that results in the jaw bone shrinking. I’ve seen the pictures and I am in tears. These people look ancient. Is there no way to save these teeth? I don’t want to look like that? If the teeth can’t be save, is there a way my jaw can be protected?
Kate
Dear Kate,
I am sorry you are going through this. I have to tell you that I have doubts that you need to have your teeth extracted. Some dentists really like to save teeth. Others prefer to extract them. I think your dentist does not enjoy working on teeth. He is more the extraction type and he’s using your diagnosis as an excuse.
The truth is that having a calcium deficiency in adulthood has zero effect on your teeth. There are serious problems associated with it, including nerve problems, cramps, and even osteoporosis. You will need to get treatment for your calcium deficiency.
As for your teeth, the first thing I would do is get a second opinion from a different dentist about the status of your teeth. Find a dentist who prefers to save as much natural tooth structure as possible.
In Case You Do Lose Your Teeth
On the off chance that you do need to extract all of your teeth there is a way to prevent the jaw shrinking. In dental circles, this is known as facial collapse. The reason this happens is because when your teeth are removed, your body recognizes this and, in an effort to be as efficient with your teeth as possible, begins to resorb the minerals in your jawbone to use elsewhere. The way to prevent that is by making your body think you still have teeth roots there that need to be retained.
My suggestion, if that happens, is that you get implant retained dentures. In this procedure, between four to eight dental implants are placed in your jaw. This signals to your body that you still have teeth and the jawbone needs to remain intact. Once the bone has integrated with the dental implants, then your dentist can anchor your dentures to the implants. You will have secure teeth and a healthy jawbone.
This blog is brought to you by Moline Dentist Dr. Thomas Goebel.