Teeth

[TynyWonder]

Does dialysis eventually take a toll on our teeth?

[willieandwinnie]

Sorry TynyWonder, but yes. Len had good strong teeth and bones, but 7 years of dialysis and all the medications have taken their toll. He had to have 4 of his back molars removed over a year ago or would of lost even more because of bone loss and not being able to really treat his other teeth. We go to the dentist every 3 months. Hope this helps. 

[TynyWonder]

Yes, it does, thanks but it is sad, ain't it?   BIG sigh.................

[monrein]

Yes it will and so really good dental hygiene is crucial.  I use an Oral B electric toothbrush with a timer and a sulcabrush for between the teeth and I floss.  I brush at least twice a day, sometimes more if I feel the need.  I am also an epileptic so I take routine dilantin which can cause havoc on the gums.  I know this is no guarantee but so far I'm holding my own.

[TynyWonder]

Monrein,

I too, have seizures and I was once on dilantin but they did eventually take me off of it for that very reason, the gums issue but now, I am on Lamictal for my seizures.   Have you ever heard or even tried Lamictal? 

[monrein]

No, I've only ever been on dilantin and during the 23+years of my now-failed transplant they did not want to switch or mess around with any meds since I was doing so very well over all.  Now, in between transplants I'll be seeing a neurologist to see if there is still epileptic brain activity suggesting that I still need an anti-convulsant.  I haven't had too bad a time of it with the dilantin but if I could take one less med I would be thrilled.

Thanks for the suggestion about Lamictal.