I damaged a front lower incisor in my twenties in an accident and had to have a crown. Over the years this tooth has had three root fillings and each time I was told it was on borrowed time. After the last filling in my forties, it was suggested by my dentist that as my mouth was quite overcrowded that orthodontic work might be able to eliminate the envisaged gap and there would be no need for a bridge or a false tooth. I was subsequently sent to see an orthodontist who told me it was too difficult and I was now too old!
Luckily the tooth held on till two years ago when a sequence of abscesses finally heralded its demise. I was now 61, far too old for orthodontics (so I thought) but my new dentist recommended me to Sunil. Sunil assured me that no one is too old. It may take a little longer than when you’re a teenager but teeth can still be re-aligned at any age.
I always had protruding upper front teeth but these were made worse in my thirties by accidentally hitting my mouth very hard with a racquet whilst playing badminton. This pushed one of my front teeth even further forward. Hence both top and bottom teeth were quite crooked and I hated my unattractive, toothy holiday snaps. In fact I would avoid being photographed at all if I could.
Sunil suggested that while the bottom gap was being closed I could also have the top teeth straightened as well. So I embarked on both upper and lower braces. I can honestly say that I had very little discomfort, even after each time the wires and bands had to be tightened. I quickly became used to the braces in my mouth and neither affected my speech nor my eating habits.
My regular visits over the two years were always very pleasant and relaxed experiences. Sunil was able to show me how much progress had been made by comparing the photo’s taken of my mouth before the treatment. The top teeth straightened quickly and my top brace was removed in under the two years. Moving the teeth to fill the lower gap took longer but after 26 months the bottom brace was also removed.
So now at 63, as a senior citizen, I have a beautiful and even smile. Unlike my parents’ generation, this was achieved by dentures. All my teeth are my own and I intend to keep it that way. Teeth cleaning is so much easier too, floss and interdental brushes fit easily between my teeth and my hygienist recently commented on the lack of plaque and the healthy condition of my gums.
I am delighted with my smile.