Relax and Enjoy Yourself
- Dating and Dental Health
By Dr. Joseph Mahon
When faced with re-entering the dating game later in life,
whether due to the loss of a spouse, or because of a divorce, emotions
run high. This transition often causes individuals to re-evaluate themselves
and be harshly critical of things that previously may not have been an
issue. People place a tremendous amount of emphasis on their dental health
and smile in terms of their pride and self-confidence, and it is seldom
more evident than when they are dating again for the first time in many
years.
Do my teeth belong in a jar?
People are increasingly requesting permanent, non-removable replacement
teeth supported by dental implants as an alternative to dentures. When
asked why she wanted dental implants as an alternative to dentures, one
patient replied that she was “embarrassed to have to take teeth
out every night” in front of her husband. Dentures are a relatively
affordable answer and do not take long to make. However, some patients
will not even consider them because of the thought of removing their teeth
every night in front of a loved one, or worse yet, having them fall out
in front of a new acquaintance. This is especially true for people who
are very active but are embarrassed by severe dental problems –
they don’t want their teeth to inhibit their otherwise full lives.
What options do I have?
Patients’ dental problems and the issues they raise are typically
unique to the individual and there are usually many solutions for any
problem. While some people are okay with dentures, others find permanent
replacement teeth to be the most desirable solution. Even if the patient
does not mind having to remove teeth at night, frustration can stem from
the lack of function of conventional false teeth. Utilizing even a couple
of dental implants for anchorage of the denture greatly improves the functionality
of dentures by making them very stable and by retaining them very well.
Partial dentures may be used to replace just a couple of missing teeth
while a complete denture replaces all the teeth in one jaw. Partial dentures
are relatively inexpensive and can be a perfectly acceptable solution
for people whose tooth loss is not very noticeable or extensive. Usually,
though, partial dentures require a lot of hardware in the mouth to replace
just a few teeth. Often the more effective means of replacement is using
dental implants to anchor replacement teeth that fill the space created
by tooth loss.
Every patient needs individual treatment planning and deserves to be understood
regarding their fears and concerns related to dental care. Part of this
understanding is having a doctor that will be honest with you about any
treatment limitations and tell you if you are a suitable candidate. Simple
honesty saves much unnecessary expense and frustration. When you go to
a specialist, do not be shy to ask about certifications and recommendations
from other patients! A good specialist will be happy to provide them.
Why does it make me so self-conscious?
The fear of losing teeth is a real one (in fact, it’s also one of
the most common nightmares) and needs to be seriously addressed. It’s
hard for many people to relax and enjoy socializing again when their teeth
are causing them anxiety or emotional or physical pain. To those who have
considered seeking implants but worry about the cost, you should ask your
specialist if he or she offers any kind of payment plan or financing.
You will be surprised how many dental specialists do offer various options.
With proper planning and delivery of dental care you should be able to
relax and enjoy the end result. Do not hesitate to consult a specialist
even just to ask a question. After all, special problems deserve special
care!
Dr. Joseph Mahon is a certified prosthodontist and the owner of a private
practice in the San Antonio Medical Center. Dr. Mahon has thirteen years
of experience in prosthodontics and limits his practice to the highly
specialized areas of dental implants and cosmetic and reconstructive dentistry.
For more information on Dr. Mahon, his practice or cosmetic, reconstructive
and implant dentistry, call (210) 614-3332, visit his website at www.drjmahon.com
, or email info@drjmahon.com.