My teeth were damaged from bulimia; absolute zero self-confidence -- what are my options? (Photos)

Question

I developed anorexia aged 15 and for the next 14 years battled with both that and then bulimia. I’m now thankfully recovered however my teeth are in sever shape. When my bulimia was at its worst I was constantly getting infections and abscesses; aswell as the enamel on my teeth quickly deteriorating. Now I’m better I rarely Get any pain however my teeth are in terrible shape. Especially the front ones which are discoloured from root canals or just very broken down. What would you suggest?

Benjamin S. Fiss, DDS · Answer

I so glad you now have control over your disease! The stomach acid from the eating disorder has removed all the enamel on your teeth. They have become smaller and in doing so have shifted down causing the height of your gum tissue to shift down as well. That’s why your bottom teeth are so much bigger then your top. The good news all of this can be fixed. A full set of X-rays and models are needed initially. A comprehensive exam by a cosmetic dentist the dental ceramist and periodontist would follow. The periodontist can reposition your gum tissue during that time the cosmetic dentist can place a temporary over your top teeth affected by the disease-immediately improving your self esteem. The results are dramatic both visually and psychologically. This temporary can be used as a “dress rehearsal “ for your final work something that the dental ceramist will closely adhere to . Please call 312-951-5230 and visit my my website DrFiss.com to learn more and see before and after succes stories

Edward A. Alvarez, DDS - Account Suspened · Answer

Hi, I'm so sorry to hear that your teeth were so damaged during your battle, but congratulations on beating Bulimia!!! As I look at your teeth from the photos I can make a few suggestions for you. First, you must have a complete and comprehensive dental exam, including x-rays. We must first see if your teeth have the proper bony support to withstand the proper dental treatment. Any teeth that are infected must either be saved via root canal, or must be extracted. From that point, a bite evaluation must be done. Your teeth show flattening and appear smaller than usual. This can be from premature loss of your back teeth, thereby collapsing your bite. A proper bite height must be re-established. This can be done via orthodontics (braces) or can be done with crowns and veneers. Once the posterior teeth are replaced and brought back to a proper bite, laser surgery should be done to re-contour your gum line in the front. At that point, veneers or all ceramic crowns can be done to restore the appearance and beauty of your smile. It will be a long road, I am not going to lie, but, there is no reason why you cannot get the smile you desire and deserve.
Best of luck, Dr. Alvarez

My teeth were damaged from bulimia; absolute zero self-confidence -- what are my options? (Photos)

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My teeth were damaged from bulimia; absolute zero self-confidence -- what are my options? (Photos)

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Tooth Repair

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.