My is 82 and has high blood pressure, diabetes, and a history of skin cancer. He takes multiple medications. for the last 20 years, she has not taken good care of her teeth. Years ago dentist told her that she needed to change her oral hygiene habits to avoid losing all her teeth. My mom has an old upper dental bridge. I took her to the dentist last week to talk about replacing the bridge. However, the dentist recommends removing all my mom’s remaining lower teeth and replacing them with dental implants. I don’t have any proof from the dentist that all my mom’s existing teeth are bad. I’m concerned about her health and the trauma of replacing all her teeth. Why would a dentist recommend extracting all her teeth and getting dental implants? – Thank. Maury from Brooklyn, NY
Maury,
Without an exam and X-rays, we cannot diagnosis your mother’s condition or recommend treatment. However, a dentist usually can present multiple options for replacing missing teeth.
We understand your concerns about the recommended treatment given your mother’s various medical conditions. The suggestion of a fairly aggressive treatment plan and apparent lack of discussion about a removable denture, which is likely an option, raises questions about the necessity of removing all her lower teeth and replacing them with dental implants. A dentist should prioritize her well-being when recommended dental procedures.
Quality dental care relies on two essential components: competence and compassion. While a dentist and their team must be skilled and knowledgeable, genuine concern for the patient’s welfare is vital. In situations like your mother’s, compassion might even be more critical than technical proficiency.
Consider the following points:
- Necessity of Extractions: It’s worth questioning why all her lower teeth need to be removed. In similar scenarios, it’s often unlikely that all teeth suddenly become unsavable. If some strong teeth remain, options exist to retain them and integrate them into a removable denture. It’s even possible that none of them need immediate extraction.
- Current Functionality: Assess how well your mother is managing with her teeth. Can she eat comfortably? This can provide valuable insight into her immediate needs.
- Dentist’s Approach: Reflect on the “vibes” you’re getting from the dentist. Does her approach feel genuinely compassionate, or is it more impersonal and purely clinical?
We advise seeking a second opinion. When consulting another dentist, avoid discussing your expectations about the treatment. Simply listen to their recommendations. If a removable appliance isn’t presented as an option, it suggests that the dentists isn’t disclosing all treatment options. Ask questions about the pros and cons of all treatment options discussed. If necessary, consult another dentist for a third opinion.
David Finley, DDS, a Monroe, Louisiana, accredited cosmetic dentist and Academy of General Dentistry Fellow, sponsors this post. Read about how Dr. Finley and his team strive to provide some of the best dental care in Monroe.
