Hi Sherree,
As you're finding out...AS can cause lot's of problems with the mouth, jaw etc...
I had to have jaw surgery for TMJ in 1988 and at this time we didn't know I had AS and now they have figured out the reason for it.
The last few years I have been having major trouble with my teeth and started needing deep cleanings, which were very painful. I couldn't understand it, because my teeth looked nice, but they didn't feel nice.
Then the nerves started being exposed and like it was mentioned by someone else, the spaces started getting bigger and doc said I had like 75 % bone loss.
About 3 years ago, after having one of my fun deep cleanings done, doc told me that if things looked any worse at my next visit then we seriously needed to think about pulling. This scared the you know what out of me, because up to this time, at every visit, things got worse.
So, I went and purchased a cyber sonic electric toothbrush and this made all the difference. Three months after using it faithfully...flossing tool and all, I went back to see him and he was amazed at how well they were doing. He expected to start setting me up for surgery, but instead I had a light cleaning and was on my way. They hadn't gotten any worse so we didn't need to do anything drastic yet.
My gums weren't bleeding anymore and they didn't hurt any longer.
Every time I use the flosser I feel like I just left the dentist, that's how good it works.
It's been 3 years now and I still have my teeth. My last appt, which was a few weeks ago he suggested another deep cleaning, but we aren't talking pulling anymore and I am hoping we won't have to for awhile.
I am sure it's inevitable that in time they will have to be pulled, but I was able to have them longer than I expected and will try to hold on to them for as long as I can. They honestly feel so much better.
Anyway, I suggest picking up one of the electronic brushes.
If I remember right it was Cheryl who recommended it to me and me and my teeth will be forever grateful to her for allowing us more time together
Hope this helps!
Hugs,
Lisa
