Removal of Teeth & Dentures

September 1 I had all 27 of my teeth removed. I am only 40 years old, but have suffered from chronic fatigue, depression, and a whole number of physical ailments for years. Basically every 18 months another tooth would begin to decay, and after putting it off for 6 months, I'd go to a dentist and have it removed.

Not everyone has good teeth, and likewise, not everyone has the money or insurance to deal with their decay properly. I met a guy in his 30's a few years back who had the nicest teeth, and when I remarked upon them, he pulled out dentures...much to my astonishment. I had always figured dentures were for old folks.

Two weeks after my teeth were pulled, it was as if a wet blanket were lifted off of me. My depression lifted, my energy levels increased, and my overall health improved exponentially by the day. Three months later, and I have lost half the weight I had been attempting to lose for years. The depression is back, but considering the past month's situation, that may be normal.

I posted this for two reasons - to give others with chronic tooth problems something to chew over - perhaps some of your other health problems may be related to your tooth decay. For me, every abscess was going into my heart...I knew it was either the teeth or me had to go.

Secondly, I am having some problems adjusting to a life with dentures. The teeth look awesome, and fit snugly - especially the lowers (which I hear is rare). But putting them in, and taking them out is quite a painful ordeal as my gums are raw from the plates squeezing over the sensitive tissue. Is anyone familiar with how long it takes for the tissue to toughen up. Is there anything I might apply to my mouth to make the putting in and taking out process less traumatic? I am getting discouraged rapidly, and didn't wear them much today.

Any experiencial advice would be appreciated.

~corvuspirit