Dr. Noah's Dentistry Blog

Questions About Dentistry Answered

Archives for November 2017

Dentist Refusing to Give Me Dentures

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I’m very worried. I’ve been in an accident that is causing me to lose most of my teeth. In preparation for that, I went to my dentist to make plans for dentures. He told me it’s imperative I get dental implants. It’s not that I don’t want them, it’s just I can’t afford them. He is absolutely refusing the give me dentures saying that at my age (I’m 23) it would be irresponsible. What should I do? It’s not like it’s any more responsible for me to be without teeth. Can you advise?

Daniel M.

Dear Daniel,

Cu-Sil denture Affordable dental treatment

First, let me express sorrow that your accident has caused you such devastating trouble. I’m sure this has been an extremely distressing situation for you. I also understand that it would be extraordinarily difficult for a 23-year-old just starting out in life to afford a procedure like dental implants. I’ll be honest with you. I don’t think you’re going to get anywhere with him, so you’ll be better served going to a different dentist. However, I am going to explain his concerns and what your options are.

While he’s handled the situation poorly, his concern is valid. At your age, if you were to get dentures and stick with that procedure, you’ll be afflicted with facial collapse before you even hit 40 years of age. While I know you can’t afford full dental implants there are ways to get as much protection for your jawbone as possible.

Affording Care You Can’t Afford

The first thing I’d do is see if there are ANY teeth which can be saved. Even one or two is better than nothing and will preserve some bone. There are dentures which can be made to have holes in them where you still have natural teeth to fit through.

Next, if there are even just a couple of implants you can afford that will help. Your dentist can strategically place them to give you maximum protection. Ask about implant overdentures.

Then, as finances allow, you can add implants your treatment plan.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Ryan Noah.

Orthodontist Said Fluorosis Means I Can’t Get Braces

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I’m very sad. I grew up in Columbia and became a citizen of the United States about ten years ago. I’ve always wanted to straighten my teeth, but needed to get financially stable first. I am and went to my first orthodontist appointment today. It was very disappointing. He said I couldn’t have braces because I have severe fluorosis. Is there no way I can fix my teeth?

Luis G.

Dear Luis,

Someone smiling with braces

I’m sorry you’ve been given the impression you can’t get your teeth straightened. You can. There are two ways to go about this, but with either option, it sounds like you’ll need a different orthodontist, one who’s more up to date with techniques and procedures.

Orthodontic Options for Patients with Severe Fluorosis

If braces are what your heart is set on, there is a way to get that. Recent studies have shown that if the orthodontist does double etching, the bond will be strong enough for your braces to remain where they should for the duration of your treatment.

Many dentists have done dental bonding procedures on fluorosis patients with great success. If it works with the bonding it should work with braces.

There is actually a better option than braces for someone in your position. Have you looked into Invisalign? It straightens your teeth without any metal wires and brackets. It’s also completely invisible, so no one will know you’re straightening your teeth.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Ryan Noah.