Hello,
I am 18 and my teeth are very bad. They are yellow and I have big holes and chips in some, even one of the front ones. They really are a mess. My confidence is very bad and I find it hard to have a face-to-face conversation with anyone because I am worried about them seeing my teeth. It is really affecting my life and work, I even stop myself from smiling:(
I am really considering having this put right but i'm not sure what can be done. Even if it's got to be dentures it would be 100x better than what i've got now.
Does anyone know what can be done in cases like this?
Also has anyone out there got or had bad teeth and suffered from a lack of confidence?
I would love to hear from people who have had similar problems.
Thanks,
Mark.

Obviously the best thing to do is to find an affordable dentist either in private practice or at a dental school or university where they charge less and at least find out what your options are. To be sure, they will usually give you a few to choose from - from the most expensive and most comprehensive to the least expensive and least comprehensive - at which point you can then weigh your options, shop around since you now know the extent of the damage and make a decision based on info acquired. If its just a matter of haing cavities filled and then some cosmetic enhancements such as bonding to make them look prettier it may not be too bad - if root canals are needed or there is significant bone loss is apparent then it could get more complex and costly - but until you get examined its hard to offer any suggestions other than to visit a few dentists and then return here to discuss them with others if you are unsure as to what to do. Dentures aren't always the best route to go - but for many they do turn out quite well - however this should be your last resort since it is permanent.

Well first you need to see a dentist to get a FMX(full mouth set of x-rays) to see how your teeth are doing inside the bone. If you have large holes from cavities, it may sound like you may need some root canals in the future to begin to correct the problem. If your gums are healty and your bones are, than there a some options out there. One option is veneers, these are placed on top of your front teeth and can be a lighter color, the dentist will usually get your input on what shade you would like them to be. The front part of your teeth are shaven down a little bit so the veneers can be bonded on properly, then impressions are taken and sent to a lab, then you can come back and have them cemented on-it's permenant. Another option, if your teeth aren't in well enough shape for the veneers is to have crowns placed. I too don't like my teeth and try to avoid smiling or I look down when I do. I have been in [removed] for 6 years, but my teeth are stained from meds when I was younger-believe it or not-not all dental assistants get free work, especially if you need a lot of it-so I'm trying to save up. Also, please-please don't have your teeth extracted-there are far too many options out there with today's technology, I know you will be able to find one that works for you. Good luck.

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