How do I overcome my anxiety and depression about losing my teeth?

Question

I have intense anxiety about a worse case scenario of losing my molars and not being able to chew anymore. Currently I have all my teeth but I may lose 2 major molars because the crowns don't stay glued on. Even if I lose these 2 molars I will still have one more molar chewing surface left, but am afraid what if something happens to these teeth as well. To overcome my anxiety I need to know how I would cope in the worst case scenario of losing all my molars. How would I be able to keep my weight on if I can't chew anymore? I know there are dentures, but what if the dentures fail from a gag reflex or the partial keeps falling off? I would be so depressed not being able to eat regular food anymore. I love to eat. Just the thought of the worst case scenario depresses me and makes me anxious even though it may never get this far. If I do ever lose my teeth, how would I survive? What could I eat if I can't chew/if the dentures fail? I fear wasting away and starving to death.

Answer 1

If you believe the worse thing that could happen is inability for chewing think there are many people that can't do that: babies and old people.... and they survive... well, they "eat" only liquids or smooth food. You definitely won't go into starvation... you can't. And science won't allow it!

I read the case of Stephen Hawking. He is a famous physician. And he is almost 100% disabled: He can't move... he can't even talk! About 40 years ago he was said he would live only 3 years... And he is now about 60! I think this is a really extreme case.

So don't worry: you have aesthetic and nutritional alternatives.

Answer 2

Many people have lived with even full plate dentures for most of their lives. It is very common and really isn't a big deal in our day and age and with our dental technologies. It is highly unlikely that there is anything inherently different about you that you would be any exception.

However, this sounds like an obssessive compulsive phobic condition that you may have - it is certainly irrational - so you should seek out the help of a therapist. I recommend a therapist who uses a behavioral approach such as lifespan integration or cognitive therapy. You would probably only need a few sessions to get relief from this fear. Here is a link to lifespan integration and where to find a therapist who does it: http://www.lifespanintegration.com/directory.php

Answer 3

Oh sweetie you are getting upset for nothing, Before I got my dentures which was 2 years ago , I only had like 8 teeth left and I still was able to eat. Stop fretting and if you see your dentist regularly I'm sure you will be fine. Now take a deep breath and stop worrying.
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Answer 4

If its bad enough that you cant chew anymore, than you could still drink apple sauce and other stuff like that. But just dont worry, stress is the leading cause behind many bigger illnesses. You just have to think on the positive side, think that you wont lose your teeth or just think about things other than that, and if its really that bad, mabye talk to a therapist.

Answer 5

You can and will be able to chew even if you don't have ANY of your teeth. I used to live with someone that once broke her jaw and during surgery they had to remove all of her teeth and she never went back to get them fixed and she eats anything and everything she could even when she had all of her teeth.

Answer 6

Talk to your dentist about the anxiety you are feeling about your teeth. There should be several options available to you. If this type of anxiety is overwhelming, perhaps talking to a therapist would be beneficial. Good luck to you.

Answer 7

Just be glad you aren't at risk for losing your front teeth. Now THAT would be hard to hide. If you got the money or dental insurance, ask about mini implants.

Answer 8

Read "Invisible Monsters" by Chuck Palahniuk.