Losing Your Smile

Sanchez42117
Sanchez42117 Member Posts: 1 Member
in Lymphoma (Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin) #1

Did anyone's teeth start to break so easily after receiving intensive radiation? I have completely lost most of my teeth and I get excruciating pain in my teeth for days and since I was homeless I didn't have the means to go to a dentist and check them out and I'm so afraid my smile is horrible I hate speaking to people I feel embarrassed to the core about them and honestly I would like to know I'm not the only one who experienced this.

Comments

  • po18guy
    po18guy Member Posts: 1,505 Member
    #2

    So sorry to hear this. Unfortunately, it can be one of the undesired side effects of radiation. Have you thought about contacting city, county or state health authorities for assistance? As well, if you check with your state dental association, there are dentists who will help you restore that smile at low or no cost. In the cancer journey, the best results come from being your own best advocate. You may have to ask several times, but the self-confidence which comes from a bright smile is worth it! You have overcome so much. There is great satisfaction in that alone.

  • medwards1993
    medwards1993 Member Posts: 2 *
    #3

    My teeth have become brittle. I broke a tooth eating water melon. My dentist said its because I have dry mouth and salvia helps keep teeth healthy.

  • boe2
    boe2 Member Posts: 7 Member
    #4
    https://csn.cancer.org/discussion/327653/losing-your-smile

    My friend had dealt with this, yes. She was in her 20s when she was diagnosed and beat lymphoma. Her teeth were pretty much ruined and it also caused great stress to her. Luckily, I think most insurances will cover extensive dental work if your doctor says it's from chemo and causes stress, discomfort, difficulty eating, and whatever. I have medicaid (usa) and they even cover dental implants now I think. I know they did dentures.

    I'm hoping you feel better. This must be hard for you. Try and notice the pretty things. That's what I do.

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