Diagnosed with "dry mouth" 1 year ago. have not faithfully cared for teeth as instructed. one yr later told damage extensive dentist stating options are now only implants or dentures! very concerned and upset-also know there is no way i can afford impl

I'm : I'm sorry to hear about your problems. Many people spend a lifetime caring for their teeth to unfortunately end up in your position. Apparently, the rest of your teeth are hopeless, so your dentist is correct... Implants or dentures. What is the cause of your dry mouth? Medications? Congenital condition? That needs to be addressed before you even consiter dental implants. Even if you opt for dentures, a dry mouth will make them uncomfortable, too. Since you cannot afford a full mouth of dentures, you can consider two on the lower and four strategically placed on the maxillary arch. The implants will support removable dentures, but these dentures will not move around while in your mouth. Hope this info helps.

Agree : Agree with dr. Davantzis regarding the importance of more about your dry mouth as this will affect future work. The treatment plan does not seem unreasonable from how you describe the state of your mouth. Because bone loss is enviable after the extraction of teeth, implants are recommended to stabilize and preserve the bone in your jaws and to support the final restoration. The type of final restoration, fixed or removable, will determine the number and location of implants needed. A ct scan (or cone beam exam) will go a long ways in determining the amount and location of bone that will accept implants.

Complex: If you suffer from dry mouth and you have not cared for your teeth so far, then you must be realistic about the future. With your condition you would have to be a "hygiene machine" faithfully, and see the dentist 4 times a year for exam and cleanings. Even then, you are at a disadvantage. See a prosthodontist for your options. You might start with dentures and move to implants later. Good luck.

Hmmmmm: I regret to say that there is not enough information to give sound restorative advise. I can tell you however, that dry mouth (xerostomia) is a persistent feeling where there is not enough saliva in your mouth. Reduced saliva flow, which causes dry mouth, can damage mouth tissue and contribute to both dental decay and, cause dental decay and bad breath.

I sympathize : It is unfortunate that you have to lose your teeth. Unfortunatfly people with dry mouth have a hard time with wearing complete dentures also. Try to get a prosthesis that is fixed which means implants.

Challenging : Maintaining oral hygiene with xerostomia, or dry mouth, can be difficult to stay on top of. Cavities can progress rapidly and often take people by surprise. You may consider getting a second opinion to confirm that indeed there are no other options at this point. Some patients start with dentures and save up for a year or two to get implants to support their dentures. Best of luck.