Assessing Your Dental Health: A Guide for Patients Facing Challenges

How to assess the overall condition of the teeth?

Hello Dr.
Huang,
I had orthodontic treatment when I was younger, but due to inadequate maintenance and various factors, my dentures have deteriorated, and my upper teeth can hardly occlude.
Recently, I visited a hospital for a consultation, where I had a dental cleaning, and they scheduled periodontal treatment for the end of November.
However, my condition has worsened in the past couple of days, making it difficult to eat.

I am facing the following situations:
1.
The hospital I visited only handles individual issues, and each evaluation requires a referral to different specialists, which takes a considerable amount of time, and I am unable to understand the comprehensive treatment plan.

2.
In the past couple of days, I have encountered difficulties in eating, which has caused significant psychological distress.
Additionally, I am struggling to find an appropriate dentist for evaluation and am unsure how to address my current problems.

I apologize for the intrusion, but I would like to ask Dr.
Huang if I could make an appointment at your clinic.
I believe that your willingness to take the time to respond to related inquiries in Taiwan shows a strong commitment to your profession.

Since my dental condition has impacted my mental well-being and daily life, and I am unsure how to proceed, I am seeking your guidance, Dr.
Huang.
Thank you!

Zhuang Xiansheng, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/17

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Mr.
Chuang,
Hello! Welcome to our hospital.
Based on your description, it may be severe periodontal disease.
Please make sure to brush your teeth thoroughly! Take care! Wishing you peace and smooth recovery!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Reply Date: 2020/10/17

More Info

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your dental health. It’s clear that you are facing significant challenges, and it’s important to address both the physical and psychological aspects of your situation.

From what you’ve described, it seems that you are experiencing severe dental issues stemming from previous orthodontic treatment and inadequate maintenance. This has led to the deterioration of your dental condition, including the breakdown of prosthetic teeth and difficulties with bite alignment, which can understandably cause distress and anxiety.

Understanding Your Dental Challenges
1. Complex Dental Needs: The fact that you need to see multiple specialists for different aspects of your dental health can be frustrating. It’s not uncommon for dental issues to require a multidisciplinary approach, especially when they involve orthodontics, periodontics, and restorative dentistry. However, this can lead to delays in treatment and a sense of disorganization in your care.

2. Eating Difficulties: Your recent challenges with eating due to your dental condition are concerning. Difficulty in chewing can lead to nutritional deficiencies and further exacerbate your anxiety and mental health issues. It’s crucial to address these eating challenges promptly.

3. Psychological Impact: The psychological toll of dental issues can be profound. Anxiety about dental procedures, fear of pain, and the social stigma associated with dental problems can lead to a cycle of avoidance and worsening dental health. It’s important to recognize that these feelings are valid and that seeking help is a positive step.

Recommendations for Moving Forward
1. Seek a Comprehensive Dental Evaluation: It may be beneficial to find a dental clinic that offers comprehensive care or a dental home where you can receive all necessary treatments under one roof. This could streamline your care and provide you with a clearer treatment plan. Look for clinics that specialize in complex cases or those that have a team of specialists working together.

2. Communicate Your Fears: When you visit a dental professional, be open about your fears and previous experiences. A good dentist will take your concerns seriously and may offer sedation options or pain management strategies to help alleviate your anxiety during procedures.

3. Consider Psychological Support: Since your dental issues are affecting your mental health, it might be helpful to consult with a mental health professional who specializes in dental anxiety. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective in managing anxiety related to medical and dental procedures.

4. Explore Pain Management Options: Discuss pain management strategies with your dentist. There are various methods available, including local anesthesia, sedation dentistry, and even non-pharmacological approaches like relaxation techniques or guided imagery that can help reduce anxiety and pain perception.

5. Nutritional Considerations: Given your eating difficulties, consider consulting with a nutritionist who can help you find ways to maintain a balanced diet despite your dental challenges. They can suggest soft foods or liquid nutrition options that are easier to consume.

6. Regular Follow-Ups: Ensure that you have regular follow-up appointments to monitor your dental health. This will help catch any issues early and allow for timely interventions.

Conclusion
Your dental health is crucial not only for physical well-being but also for your overall quality of life. It’s commendable that you are seeking help and looking for solutions. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are professionals who can assist you in overcoming these challenges. Take the first step by reaching out to a comprehensive dental care provider, and don’t hesitate to seek support for your mental health as well. Your well-being is paramount, and with the right care, you can improve both your dental health and your quality of life.

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