My mom is 80 and in poor health. She has neglected her teeth for years. The has an upper dental bridge. Several lower teeth are decayed. I was surprised when her dentist recommended removing all her lower teeth for a snap-on implant denture. I am concerned that my mom’s medical condition won’t allow her to get through intense oral surgery. Why wouldn’t she be eligible for a regular denture? How do I know that all her lower teeth need to be removed? – Thanks. Sonja from El Paso, TX
Sonja,
We are unable to assess the condition of your mother’s teeth, but we can hear your concern. It sounds like the office may not have shown the compassion and clarity you hoped for when discussing treatment. Your mother has several medical considerations, yet the dentist recommended an implant denture, which is an aggressive plan. However, a removable denture is an option that often works well for medically fragile patients. Your experience at the dental office raises reasonable questions about whether this plan is in your mother’s best interest.
What Should Quality Dental Care Include?
Before and after tooth replacement by Dr. Brooksher
High-quality care rests on competence and compassion. Skill matters, but equally important is a dentist’s ability to listen, understand the patient’s needs, and tailor the plan to their overall health. In cases like your mother’s, compassion may be even more essential than technical expertise.
Questions to Consider Before Removing Teeth
Before making decisions about your mother’s care, you deserve clear answers. It’s unusual for all lower teeth to suddenly require extraction, especially if your mother has been functioning well with them.
Reflect on her daily comfort and how she currently manages chewing and speaking. These details can guide a more thoughtful plan. Ask yourself:
- How well is she eating with her current teeth?
- Have the teeth been painful, loose, or repeatedly infected?
If she has even a few stable teeth, a removable denture designed around those teeth might be an option.
A Second Opinion Can Help
A second opinion can bring clarity. When you see another dentist, avoid mentioning the previous recommendation. Simply listen to the options they present. If no one offers a removable denture solution, you may not be getting the full picture. Pay attention to how you feel in the office. Do you sense genuine concern for your mother’s comfort and health, or does the approach feel rushed or strictly clinical?
Dr. Steven Brooksher, a Baton Rouge accredited cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post. Read why so many patients view Dr. Brooksher as one of the best dentists in Baton Rouge.
