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I haven’t been to the dentist in 35 years, my tooth has fallen out and I have lump in my mouth?

I am 50 years old and have suffered a dental phobia since an early experience (aged 5 – 9) with a dentist who believed that ‘milk teeth’ had no nerves and therefore sedation was not required. The pain was excruciating! I have not been to a dentist for nearly 35 years although I brush twice a day.
However I recently lost a front lower tooth and I have been aware of a small painless lump in the floor of my mouth which has not grown.
My job is customer focused and I have been increasingly aware from customers and colleagues that my teeth are not ‘appropriate’, especially with the gap in the front.
I get frightened and sweaty even thinking about the dentist, even during writing this e-mail!
Can you advice me of any solutions?

Regards 

Well done for getting this far .
Nothing can change now unless you can find a dentist and at least get some information about what your options are .
Its likely that your tooth has dropped out because you have advanced decay in it or loose because of gum disease . You will need to have some sort of replacement teeth. Could you get someone to go with you to the dentist , tell them how scared you are and that you havent been for 35 years .
There may be some solutions that could involve you having some sort of sedation.
look at dentalfearcentral.org which will help you to find a suitable dentist who other people in your situation have had success with

Answer provided by: Dr Jennifer Pinder Retired
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