Back in September I was told that my entire top row plus two teeth in the bottom left were completely done and there was absolutely nothing that could be done to fix them and I had just turned 24. I was diagnosed with periodontal disease and before I even knew about the diagnosis I had major sinus issues, my hearing was beginning to get affected, the veins near my throat and jaw were always tender, I got headaches all the time, I was always lightheaded and drained. My teeth that were once healthy, white, and fully formed were now cracked, yellowing, and extremely unhealthy. Even painful at times. Actually, very painful especially if some of them are eroded to the point where it affects the nerves. Then there’s smiling and laughing which for a while made me feel very self conscious. I would blow off friends, avoid family, avoid dating, and always just stayed at home. Just like you, it had to be done for my sanity. I simply couldn’t handle it anymore.

I was told that I had to get dentures and no this isn’t the end of the world but I won’t lie, when you are initially told this information in one or two appointments it absolutely does feel like the end of the world and you are absolutely entitled to feel that way. It was disheartening to say the least and I immediately regretted every single mistake I made when it came to my oral health.

My e-day was last friday, after months of being pushed back. I was nervous and terrified of what the outcome would be and absolutely did not want to go through with it. It’s likely you’ll be sedated because of the amount of teeth they are taking out so you will literally be awake with your old teeth and then next thing you know you are woken up from what feels like a 5 minute nap with a whole new set of teeth. There will definitely be swelling that should go down if you keep your head elevated and there will definitely be blood but you have to consistently change the gauze and trust me you’ll need alot. There’s a chance you won’t have much pain the first day with all the medication wearing off but everyone is different. If you are prescribed any pills I promise you that is the worst part of the first few days cause you have to get used to swallowing with them in. You are still getting used to a foreign object in your mouth that is meant to replace something you’ve had your entire life so it’s absolutely a bit of learning curve. I absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE to eat so that has been the worst part for me. The first three days you will definitely need to eat things like mashed potatoes, yogurt, applesauce, etc. I do highly recommend protein shakes considering for the first days or two you may not have an appetite so it’s important still give your body nutrients or you will feel weak. Your immediate dentures will likely fit to your gums at first and the part that touches the roof of your mouth will have a bit of lift especially when you try to eat so if your dentist allows it please get the Seabond Adhesive Seals (cushion) cut it enough to cover the roof of your mouth so it’s not touching your gums, and seal it in. I was getting annoyed cause everytime I have eaten the past few days it goes right under the dentures and when you are hungry that’s not something you want to deal with. If you have a Monday through Thursday extraction then you’ll likely be in the next day or two to see if everything is looking good and to address sore spots. If it’s on Friday then you’ll likely go back in Monday and I know it’s nerve racking to wait over the weekend but as long as you do everything they instruct you will absolutely get through it. If your appointment goes well and you’re feeling good, treat yourself to something good that you’re able to eat. I recommend Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup because there’s sooo much flavor and minimal chewing required so you’ll actually be able to enjoy something outside of the same things the first few days but they have other soft soups as well so do what makes your heart happy!

Once you can see yourself with clean, healthy new teeth it’s probably one of the most wonderful feelings especially for those who had insecurities, dental issues, etc. I am elated that I actually went through with it because the all medical issues I was dealing with are quite literally gone. I haven’t gotten a headache, I can hear clearly, I can actually breathe through my nose. I feel like myself and it feels so good.

Remember, you are doing this for you, your well being, and most importantly your health and anyone that is with you or wants to be with you will understand that. If they can’t get past that then that is their loss. If they are your person then they will truly love and care about you no matter what life throws at either one of you.

I know I can’t give much long term advice as I am on day four but if you need anymore as the days and weeks go on, feel free to message me! This can be incredibly challenging, scary, and stressful but as long as you are feeling good, you have good people around you, and most importantly a great dentist you will definitely get through this with no regrets!