Aa
dental health
I was just wondering about my teeth. I've read previous posts here and have had a previous question answered. I perceive you as being sensitive to us and our needs.
Just generally issues with my teeth seem to dump me into a severe suicidal crisis. I understand the emotional content needs to be discussed with a psychotherapist, etc.
My current concerns are about eroded teeth near the gum line due to brushing too hard, too often, etc and binge eating (often sugary stuff, etc) to compensate for the anxiety (relating to my teeth, etc).
Is that eroded part likely to get worse? Are there things I can do to better protect my teeth? My fear is that one day I will need dentures. I would absolutely hate for this to happen. The worst part would be losing my teeth.
My goal is to better manage my anxiety and therefore diet. It's complex. My teeth and health are suffering.
Do you have any dental tips or advice that may help me? Any would be greatly appreciated.
Just generally issues with my teeth seem to dump me into a severe suicidal crisis. I understand the emotional content needs to be discussed with a psychotherapist, etc.
My current concerns are about eroded teeth near the gum line due to brushing too hard, too often, etc and binge eating (often sugary stuff, etc) to compensate for the anxiety (relating to my teeth, etc).
Is that eroded part likely to get worse? Are there things I can do to better protect my teeth? My fear is that one day I will need dentures. I would absolutely hate for this to happen. The worst part would be losing my teeth.
My goal is to better manage my anxiety and therefore diet. It's complex. My teeth and health are suffering.
Do you have any dental tips or advice that may help me? Any would be greatly appreciated.
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Well, it sounds like you have a multiple issues that are affect each other. The best thing to do is to focus on your situation and get all part working at the same time. In terms of dental, going to your dentist to discuss the issue would be ideal. If there are problems with erosion, it can be necessary to treat it. You could be getting something called abfraction, which is the wearing away of teeth at the gumline due to clenching/grinding of teeth. You may want to consider getting a nightguard to manage it. Also, your dentist may consider placing of bonding/white fillings into those areas to protect it. Switching to a soft toothbrush, re-learning your brushing, flossing techniques would be helpful as well. If you can, you may want to look into an electric toothbrush.
Thanks for your feedback.
I'll do a Wikipedia search on abfraction and see what that says. I have had periods where I have become extremely angry and frustrated and have clenched my teeth.
My dentist did say he might need to fill the areas but then said that they would discolor and that there would likely be other problems. I can't remember what those were likely to be.
I have been using a soft toothbrush more recently and are sometimes careful to rinse the bristles under warm water so that they are less abrasive.
My dentist said to brush at a 45 degree angle and then flick. I feel a little uncoordinated doing this and worry that my teeth aren't sufficiently clean. Is it still necessary to brush for the two minutes like this? I don't know anymore. My confidence seems to have gone through the floor. :(
I think I may have been flossing wrong and previously would put pressure on the floss when it was getting stuck between my teeth which has affected them. Breaking off little pieces of them. :(
My dentist gave me a Colgate NutraFluor 5000 Plus toothpaste. Is it best to use this all the time or can I use my regular Colgate Advanced Whitening one too?
Do electric toothbrushes really make that much difference? Better clean, less pressure, etc. I read a post of yours saying that you used an electric toothbrush. As a dentist do you recommend one over others?
Sorry for all the questions. I'm going through a confidence crisis and just want reassurance I'm doing everything possible at this time to maintain good dental health.
Thank you for your time and patience.
I'll do a Wikipedia search on abfraction and see what that says. I have had periods where I have become extremely angry and frustrated and have clenched my teeth.
My dentist did say he might need to fill the areas but then said that they would discolor and that there would likely be other problems. I can't remember what those were likely to be.
I have been using a soft toothbrush more recently and are sometimes careful to rinse the bristles under warm water so that they are less abrasive.
My dentist said to brush at a 45 degree angle and then flick. I feel a little uncoordinated doing this and worry that my teeth aren't sufficiently clean. Is it still necessary to brush for the two minutes like this? I don't know anymore. My confidence seems to have gone through the floor. :(
I think I may have been flossing wrong and previously would put pressure on the floss when it was getting stuck between my teeth which has affected them. Breaking off little pieces of them. :(
My dentist gave me a Colgate NutraFluor 5000 Plus toothpaste. Is it best to use this all the time or can I use my regular Colgate Advanced Whitening one too?
Do electric toothbrushes really make that much difference? Better clean, less pressure, etc. I read a post of yours saying that you used an electric toothbrush. As a dentist do you recommend one over others?
Sorry for all the questions. I'm going through a confidence crisis and just want reassurance I'm doing everything possible at this time to maintain good dental health.
Thank you for your time and patience.
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
I was taught the same method that you described in terms of brushing. I believe its called the modified bass technique. Ya, there's a name for brushing teeth, go figure. I would follow your dentist's particular instructions in regards to brushing.
I'm surprised that floss would break your teeth. If they are indeed that fragile and brittle, I would definitely use the toothpaste that your dentist prescribed as it contains more fluoride to help keep the teeth mineralized.
I do use an electric toothbrush. I use a Sonicare although I don't necessarily endorse it. It has several features which are nice, including a timer which makes you brush for the proper amount of time and has various settings for brushing including sensitivity settings and can supposedly detect when you are brushing too hard and will turn off. I personally have tried to see if I could turn it off but I haven't done so yet. I did have a few patients report to me that it does turn off for them when they brush too hard. Perhaps I need to brush harder.
I'm fairly certain that all of the more expensive electric toothbrushes have similar features. Ask your dentist for a reocmmendation if you're confused. Sometimes the companies will send the dentist some coupons, etc to help promote their products.
I'm surprised that floss would break your teeth. If they are indeed that fragile and brittle, I would definitely use the toothpaste that your dentist prescribed as it contains more fluoride to help keep the teeth mineralized.
I do use an electric toothbrush. I use a Sonicare although I don't necessarily endorse it. It has several features which are nice, including a timer which makes you brush for the proper amount of time and has various settings for brushing including sensitivity settings and can supposedly detect when you are brushing too hard and will turn off. I personally have tried to see if I could turn it off but I haven't done so yet. I did have a few patients report to me that it does turn off for them when they brush too hard. Perhaps I need to brush harder.
I'm fairly certain that all of the more expensive electric toothbrushes have similar features. Ask your dentist for a reocmmendation if you're confused. Sometimes the companies will send the dentist some coupons, etc to help promote their products.
I think what was happening was that the floss was getting stuck between my teeth. I think my teeth were also moving sufficiently so that in the evening when I flossed there would be limited space. I don't know if that was the case or not. I don't think I've had this problem since having my wisdom teeth out.
My teeth have also chipped/ crumbled when I've eaten seedless sultanas (with seeds, etc) and mushrooms with microscopic dirt particles, etc. I guess that does make them both fragile and brittle. Not a good thing. I'll try and be more proactive with the prescribed toothpaste. I like the whitening component of the other.
Maybe tea is my problem. They say that when you drink too much you pee out your bones (and teeth). ??
I probably wouldn't recommend brushing harder. I have been told by a dentist that it is contra-indicated.
I'll look into the electric toothbrush. It sounds like it could be a good investment.
Thanks again for your time and feedback. And for answering so many of our questions. I appreciate it. I'm sure others do too. Thanks!!
My teeth have also chipped/ crumbled when I've eaten seedless sultanas (with seeds, etc) and mushrooms with microscopic dirt particles, etc. I guess that does make them both fragile and brittle. Not a good thing. I'll try and be more proactive with the prescribed toothpaste. I like the whitening component of the other.
Maybe tea is my problem. They say that when you drink too much you pee out your bones (and teeth). ??
I probably wouldn't recommend brushing harder. I have been told by a dentist that it is contra-indicated.
I'll look into the electric toothbrush. It sounds like it could be a good investment.
Thanks again for your time and feedback. And for answering so many of our questions. I appreciate it. I'm sure others do too. Thanks!!
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
The teeth may move slightly but it shouldn't be too drastic as in a day to day type of situation. You may want to ask your dentist about that.
I'm not sure about tea being bad for your bones and teeth. I think that tea may actually have a beneficial effect. It may stain your teeth but I believe the pH levels on it help neutralize the acid but I'm not 100% sure. I'll have to do some research later.
I would probably avoid the whitening toothpaste if given a choice. Some of them tend to whiten because they are slightly more abrasive and brush off the stains. I'd avoid it since you do have "weakened" teeth and less stress on it it probably better. I don't believe that the toothpaste would have caused the problem but I'd advise against use of it since you indicated you can be more prone to that type of problem.
There was once a story I learned in dental school of a patient whom was obsessed with brushing and keeping their teeth clean that he brushed with Comet. His teeth were severely worn. Its not that abrasive as its met the safety standards in terms of how abrasive toothpaste can be but since your teeth need more care, again, I'd probably avoid it for now.
I'm not sure about tea being bad for your bones and teeth. I think that tea may actually have a beneficial effect. It may stain your teeth but I believe the pH levels on it help neutralize the acid but I'm not 100% sure. I'll have to do some research later.
I would probably avoid the whitening toothpaste if given a choice. Some of them tend to whiten because they are slightly more abrasive and brush off the stains. I'd avoid it since you do have "weakened" teeth and less stress on it it probably better. I don't believe that the toothpaste would have caused the problem but I'd advise against use of it since you indicated you can be more prone to that type of problem.
There was once a story I learned in dental school of a patient whom was obsessed with brushing and keeping their teeth clean that he brushed with Comet. His teeth were severely worn. Its not that abrasive as its met the safety standards in terms of how abrasive toothpaste can be but since your teeth need more care, again, I'd probably avoid it for now.
My next dental appointment is in June. I might need to start making a list of questions for him now. It sounds like I might need to start saving a lot now too. ??
I think the movement has reduced significantly since having my wisdom teeth out. I'll monitor it and ask my dentist about it if it is still a concern. It may be interesting to see what he says anyway. I hate to waste his (and your) time.
It would be interesting to drop a piece of litmus paper into a cup of tea just to measure its pH level. I've never thought about its pH before. If it were basic why does it trigger gerd or acid reflux?
My understanding was that it reduced our bone density predisposing us to osteoporosis, etc.
I could try researching this myself.
I guess you're right. I'm vain enough to want the white, perfect teeth though. It will be hard for me to give up the whitening toothpaste. But worth it if it protects my teeth.
I'm unfamiliar with Comet. Sounds like an industrial strength cleaner.
I'll avoid both the comet and the whitening toothpaste.
It reminds me of my father. My father brushes his teeth like once a year (totally gross) and seems to have had very few problems.
The story really resonates with me. There is also that saying, that what we fear we create. It all becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.
The anxiety and resultant depression just leaves me feeling absolutely devastated.
I expect I must lump all my personal failures on my teeth. My teeth are bad therefore I am bad. Or I am bad because my teeth are bad because I can't manage my weight and can't manage my stress and anxiety. It's complex.
I'm actually really lucky to have found a dentist whom I feel relatively comfortable with. My last dentist did a lot of damage both physically and emotionally.
Thank you for all your time and feedback. I'm sorry to have harassed you so much.
I think you do an excellent job on this forum.
I think the movement has reduced significantly since having my wisdom teeth out. I'll monitor it and ask my dentist about it if it is still a concern. It may be interesting to see what he says anyway. I hate to waste his (and your) time.
It would be interesting to drop a piece of litmus paper into a cup of tea just to measure its pH level. I've never thought about its pH before. If it were basic why does it trigger gerd or acid reflux?
My understanding was that it reduced our bone density predisposing us to osteoporosis, etc.
I could try researching this myself.
I guess you're right. I'm vain enough to want the white, perfect teeth though. It will be hard for me to give up the whitening toothpaste. But worth it if it protects my teeth.
I'm unfamiliar with Comet. Sounds like an industrial strength cleaner.
I'll avoid both the comet and the whitening toothpaste.
It reminds me of my father. My father brushes his teeth like once a year (totally gross) and seems to have had very few problems.
The story really resonates with me. There is also that saying, that what we fear we create. It all becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.
The anxiety and resultant depression just leaves me feeling absolutely devastated.
I expect I must lump all my personal failures on my teeth. My teeth are bad therefore I am bad. Or I am bad because my teeth are bad because I can't manage my weight and can't manage my stress and anxiety. It's complex.
I'm actually really lucky to have found a dentist whom I feel relatively comfortable with. My last dentist did a lot of damage both physically and emotionally.
Thank you for all your time and feedback. I'm sorry to have harassed you so much.
I think you do an excellent job on this forum.
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Thanks. Its nice to be appreciated as this is strictly volunteer work. =)
Ya, its like I was saying earlier. Its important to try to tackle all aspects of your situation to best remedy the problem. Trying to address one issue and not the others can still have some beneficial effects but I think a multi-disciplinary approach to your health is ideal. Unfortunately its always hard for all your doctors to get together to discuss your situation but if you can find good doctors you trust, they can consult with each other since they are "experts" in their respective fields.
Just take each day at at time. I guess its like they say, a journey begins with a single step or something like that.
Ya, its like I was saying earlier. Its important to try to tackle all aspects of your situation to best remedy the problem. Trying to address one issue and not the others can still have some beneficial effects but I think a multi-disciplinary approach to your health is ideal. Unfortunately its always hard for all your doctors to get together to discuss your situation but if you can find good doctors you trust, they can consult with each other since they are "experts" in their respective fields.
Just take each day at at time. I guess its like they say, a journey begins with a single step or something like that.
I think you're right. I think a multi-disciplinary approach to health is best.
I also think that in most cases incremental changes are most effective.
The mh 'experts' in my area are anything but expert.
I have learned a lot from talking to you and reading your responses to other posts.
I feel reassured about my brushing, I will start using the fluoride toothpaste in earnest and I will look into getting an electric toothbrush. I will also cut back on my tea consumption. I also read that SSRI's can cause bone loss. I just thought that that was interesting. I was sectioned for severe depression and forced to take ad's.
Also a comment in another post reminded me of that acid feeling I get in my mouth when I get stressed. Stress management is another component to dental health.
Thank you very much for your last comment. I have been experiencing strong suicidal urges in the evenings and I think I can use your comment to help ground me. You also just reminded me that I need to focus on reality -on the here and now.
There is also a saying, It is not the mountain but the stone in your shoe that will stop you.
Anyway, thank you very much for all your time and expertize.
(If you ever give up dentistry I think you would make an excellent psychotherapist.)
I also think that in most cases incremental changes are most effective.
The mh 'experts' in my area are anything but expert.
I have learned a lot from talking to you and reading your responses to other posts.
I feel reassured about my brushing, I will start using the fluoride toothpaste in earnest and I will look into getting an electric toothbrush. I will also cut back on my tea consumption. I also read that SSRI's can cause bone loss. I just thought that that was interesting. I was sectioned for severe depression and forced to take ad's.
Also a comment in another post reminded me of that acid feeling I get in my mouth when I get stressed. Stress management is another component to dental health.
Thank you very much for your last comment. I have been experiencing strong suicidal urges in the evenings and I think I can use your comment to help ground me. You also just reminded me that I need to focus on reality -on the here and now.
There is also a saying, It is not the mountain but the stone in your shoe that will stop you.
Anyway, thank you very much for all your time and expertize.
(If you ever give up dentistry I think you would make an excellent psychotherapist.)
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Well. Funny you should say that. I was considering doing a PhD in Psychology if I didn't get into dental school. I was a psychology major in undergrad. I also did alot of mentoring work with junior high school and high school students in undergrad and after I graduated from college. So I tried to be supportive emotionally as well as a good source of information.
Are there any support groups in your area as well? I'm sure there are TONS of resources out there for you. Its finding it thats the hard part.
Are there any support groups in your area as well? I'm sure there are TONS of resources out there for you. Its finding it thats the hard part.
You've done both very well.
My only gripe with your forum is the length of time it takes you to respond to some posts. You're easily one of the experts with the highest workloads on this site though. Most just limit the number of posts or have colleagues helping. I expect you're extremely busy and I think overall you do a great job.
I find the psychology/ dentistry combination interesting. Psychological skills I think are extremely transferable. Dentistry I find a bit different but it has a role. I expect there is an awful lot I don't understand about it. I guess one also has to follow their passion.
I think this forum it an excellent way to use both your skills/ talents.
No, no support groups or support for people with my issues. The lack of support I think is just absolutely ridiculous.
In order to get any support I need to be self-harming every day. I'm just not prepared to do that. It's hard having a little insight but having significant skills deficits. I just find the whole situation frustrating and unhelpful.
My cousin hung himself just before Christmas and I was still reeling from having breast cancer treatment and having my wisdom teeth out. I don't understand the psychological link with my teeth but it is significant.
I just feel drained and defeated at the moment. My teeth are frustrating and distressing me and I see that as a good reason to give up.
You were right in your other post though. I just need to take one day at a time. And if things are really bad then each second or each minute at a time.
I've enjoyed talking to you. I worry about wasting your time and the relevance of my posts. They seem to have become more emotional than strictly dental. sorry.
I think you're a good guy. Good luck with everything.
My only gripe with your forum is the length of time it takes you to respond to some posts. You're easily one of the experts with the highest workloads on this site though. Most just limit the number of posts or have colleagues helping. I expect you're extremely busy and I think overall you do a great job.
I find the psychology/ dentistry combination interesting. Psychological skills I think are extremely transferable. Dentistry I find a bit different but it has a role. I expect there is an awful lot I don't understand about it. I guess one also has to follow their passion.
I think this forum it an excellent way to use both your skills/ talents.
No, no support groups or support for people with my issues. The lack of support I think is just absolutely ridiculous.
In order to get any support I need to be self-harming every day. I'm just not prepared to do that. It's hard having a little insight but having significant skills deficits. I just find the whole situation frustrating and unhelpful.
My cousin hung himself just before Christmas and I was still reeling from having breast cancer treatment and having my wisdom teeth out. I don't understand the psychological link with my teeth but it is significant.
I just feel drained and defeated at the moment. My teeth are frustrating and distressing me and I see that as a good reason to give up.
You were right in your other post though. I just need to take one day at a time. And if things are really bad then each second or each minute at a time.
I've enjoyed talking to you. I worry about wasting your time and the relevance of my posts. They seem to have become more emotional than strictly dental. sorry.
I think you're a good guy. Good luck with everything.
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Sure thing. Well, there's more to health than just teeth and as a health care professional, I try to help out but I definitely can't overstep my profession. Its not for me to say how to deal with your other situations but there's nothing wrong with being supportive and trying to help find resources and referrals.
I hope my comments didn't come across as abrasive. I wasn't pushing you away just telling myself that I'm an idiot for discussing other stuff here.
The irony is that others have more common sense than my health care providers.
Can I ask you for advice then?
I've mentioned here that I'm struggling a little. I've spoken to other experts on other forums and they have suggested I access psychotherapy (which is part of the problem).
My T left the service in September 2008. Since then there hasn't really been any support. The remaining T's in the service don't have either the skill or the experience to deal with me and my issues.
My history with the mhs has been long and complicated (and continues to be so).
I need therapy, I accept that. The mhs are unable to provide adequate therapy yet won't refer me due to funding issues and basically because they don't want too.
I just don't know what to do. I don't have the resources to access other support. I see my GP weekly (or have been). He writes letters, etc but so far nothing has been resolved. I refuse to access the psych emergency services due to past experiences. There has been a lot of misunderstanding there and they have hurt me a lot. I don't feel safe going to the hospital. Again I would just get referred back to the psych services and they aren't able to offer anything constructive. I am also fearful of their 'support' and 'treatment'.
I was quite traumatized after being sectioned and several weeks after discharge took all the discharge meds. It was said to be a lethal amount and I spent a week in icu. About a week after this I had my leave revoked and was threatened with ect. I refused to consent to the treatment and the doctor became pretty irate. He was more concerned about power and control than my health and well-being. It went to court. In the end I was not given ect but was left feeling extremely powerless and vulnerable. I have no confidence in either our mhs or our judicial system.
Anyway, it all kind of leaves me feeling trapped and confused.
I feel uncontained and to be honest this communication with you has been my major lifeline. It's been enough for me to be able to go to bed and get up again each day. I have an appointment to see my GP on Tuesday (it's Sunday here now).
I'm scared of a lot of things. I'm unable to discuss any of this with my family.
My last T sent me a letter asking me to contact him. I left six messages for him. He returned none. My experience is that people will only help if something is physically wrong.
I'm not really sure what resources and referrals are available.
All this just seems to have been triggered by my visit to my dentist in October.
I wrote to you back then (asking about fillings versus extractions). I elected to have the teeth out. Things weren't really helped by dry sockets and an infection. I should have followed up with my dentist earlier but was second guessing myself all the time. Just about over dosing on pain meds should have been a big clue. My dentist put me on three courses of antibiotics which helped clear things up -thankfully.
I just feel tired and rundown. My GP said last year was a tough year for me.
I thought I could dig deep and resolve to do a triathlon or half marathon or even marathon but ... it still doesn't really resolve the underlying stuff. I really don't know what to do.
I have a reasonable relationship with the doctor on the mh expert forum. He is currently away on leave. He would perhaps say that I am too reliant on others to fix me. I don't even know what to make of that either. Being strong or responsible for me would then mean not accessing therapy (but he says to pursue that). ??
You have the option of deleting my post. I was probably just trying to protect you from me but if you want to offer support and advice I'm more than willing to accept it.
I'm pretty tired at the moment and my thought processes are pretty messed up. Maybe I'm severely depressed again, I'm not sure. Surely my GP would say though.
If you do have any advice it would be greatly appreciated.
Would it be wrong pressuring my GP for support on Tuesday? I probably need more intensive support at the moment, don't I. Do I??
The irony is that others have more common sense than my health care providers.
Can I ask you for advice then?
I've mentioned here that I'm struggling a little. I've spoken to other experts on other forums and they have suggested I access psychotherapy (which is part of the problem).
My T left the service in September 2008. Since then there hasn't really been any support. The remaining T's in the service don't have either the skill or the experience to deal with me and my issues.
My history with the mhs has been long and complicated (and continues to be so).
I need therapy, I accept that. The mhs are unable to provide adequate therapy yet won't refer me due to funding issues and basically because they don't want too.
I just don't know what to do. I don't have the resources to access other support. I see my GP weekly (or have been). He writes letters, etc but so far nothing has been resolved. I refuse to access the psych emergency services due to past experiences. There has been a lot of misunderstanding there and they have hurt me a lot. I don't feel safe going to the hospital. Again I would just get referred back to the psych services and they aren't able to offer anything constructive. I am also fearful of their 'support' and 'treatment'.
I was quite traumatized after being sectioned and several weeks after discharge took all the discharge meds. It was said to be a lethal amount and I spent a week in icu. About a week after this I had my leave revoked and was threatened with ect. I refused to consent to the treatment and the doctor became pretty irate. He was more concerned about power and control than my health and well-being. It went to court. In the end I was not given ect but was left feeling extremely powerless and vulnerable. I have no confidence in either our mhs or our judicial system.
Anyway, it all kind of leaves me feeling trapped and confused.
I feel uncontained and to be honest this communication with you has been my major lifeline. It's been enough for me to be able to go to bed and get up again each day. I have an appointment to see my GP on Tuesday (it's Sunday here now).
I'm scared of a lot of things. I'm unable to discuss any of this with my family.
My last T sent me a letter asking me to contact him. I left six messages for him. He returned none. My experience is that people will only help if something is physically wrong.
I'm not really sure what resources and referrals are available.
All this just seems to have been triggered by my visit to my dentist in October.
I wrote to you back then (asking about fillings versus extractions). I elected to have the teeth out. Things weren't really helped by dry sockets and an infection. I should have followed up with my dentist earlier but was second guessing myself all the time. Just about over dosing on pain meds should have been a big clue. My dentist put me on three courses of antibiotics which helped clear things up -thankfully.
I just feel tired and rundown. My GP said last year was a tough year for me.
I thought I could dig deep and resolve to do a triathlon or half marathon or even marathon but ... it still doesn't really resolve the underlying stuff. I really don't know what to do.
I have a reasonable relationship with the doctor on the mh expert forum. He is currently away on leave. He would perhaps say that I am too reliant on others to fix me. I don't even know what to make of that either. Being strong or responsible for me would then mean not accessing therapy (but he says to pursue that). ??
You have the option of deleting my post. I was probably just trying to protect you from me but if you want to offer support and advice I'm more than willing to accept it.
I'm pretty tired at the moment and my thought processes are pretty messed up. Maybe I'm severely depressed again, I'm not sure. Surely my GP would say though.
If you do have any advice it would be greatly appreciated.
Would it be wrong pressuring my GP for support on Tuesday? I probably need more intensive support at the moment, don't I. Do I??
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Tough situation. Its important to tackle big problems by breaking it down into smaller manageable pieces. I'm not sure why they won't make a referral to another health care provider. It seems like a pretty logical step to me because if I'm unable to treat the problem, I would definitely seek someone who can. What does the advisor on the forum say? I'm not as familiar with medical health and how it works. Dental has its own structure and we're still a little outside of the loop so to speak.
I'm also a little confused, whats a ECT?
I'm also a little confused, whats a ECT?
Baby steps, right? Like the journey of a thousand miles or the eating of an elephant.
I don't think the system want to admit defeat. In the past they have just blamed me, the patient, and I have accepted that blame. My last T said that it wasn't about me but the system and the clinicians within the system.
Other departments will refer. I was referred for the breast biopsy and radiation. I don't think the psych services take a lot of responsibility. I don't think the system has a very good appreciation of its limitations either.
The doctor on the mental health expert forum/ emotional eating expert forum says that he is frustrated that he can't help me directly. He says to look for that one doctor who can help me.
Usually it is mental health considered as being out of the loop.
ect -electroconvulsive therapy or shock treatment. I haven't had it but being threatened with it wasn't very pleasant.
I spoke to my GP today. He said he would contact the consultant psychiatrist who is also the director of mental health. Basically it's amounted to being back in the same cycle. There doesn't seem to be any way out of this mess.
So the long-term goal would be to get adequate support. ?? If I felt I could change by myself I would do that. It hasn't been terribly effective. So then accessing that support, without doing myself more damage (emotionally or physically), would be key. It's hard to access options when you aren't well either.
My GP goes away on leave for several weeks. I've asked if he could contact me before then with feedback from the shrink.
My GP wants an independent psych evaluation from a specialist in the field I have issues with.
The only other options left are to make a complaint to the health and disability commissioner or to take the matter to my local member of parliament.
Maybe that's something I need to follow through with despite being unwell.
I've just pushed everything away at the moment because it's been too much for me to deal with. I've been for a swim and a bike ride today but still don't feel very good.
Maybe those bone leeching ssri's wouldn't be such a bad idea. ?? I don't think ad's are the answer though.
Thank you for putting this problem into perspective for me.
J
I don't think the system want to admit defeat. In the past they have just blamed me, the patient, and I have accepted that blame. My last T said that it wasn't about me but the system and the clinicians within the system.
Other departments will refer. I was referred for the breast biopsy and radiation. I don't think the psych services take a lot of responsibility. I don't think the system has a very good appreciation of its limitations either.
The doctor on the mental health expert forum/ emotional eating expert forum says that he is frustrated that he can't help me directly. He says to look for that one doctor who can help me.
Usually it is mental health considered as being out of the loop.
ect -electroconvulsive therapy or shock treatment. I haven't had it but being threatened with it wasn't very pleasant.
I spoke to my GP today. He said he would contact the consultant psychiatrist who is also the director of mental health. Basically it's amounted to being back in the same cycle. There doesn't seem to be any way out of this mess.
So the long-term goal would be to get adequate support. ?? If I felt I could change by myself I would do that. It hasn't been terribly effective. So then accessing that support, without doing myself more damage (emotionally or physically), would be key. It's hard to access options when you aren't well either.
My GP goes away on leave for several weeks. I've asked if he could contact me before then with feedback from the shrink.
My GP wants an independent psych evaluation from a specialist in the field I have issues with.
The only other options left are to make a complaint to the health and disability commissioner or to take the matter to my local member of parliament.
Maybe that's something I need to follow through with despite being unwell.
I've just pushed everything away at the moment because it's been too much for me to deal with. I've been for a swim and a bike ride today but still don't feel very good.
Maybe those bone leeching ssri's wouldn't be such a bad idea. ?? I don't think ad's are the answer though.
Thank you for putting this problem into perspective for me.
J
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hm. Sounds like you are stuck between a rock and a hard place. It sounds very frustrating to want to be well but unable to find the help or "cure" you need.
Well, I was thinking in terms of the US health care system. It may be out of the system but there are support groups for people who may have behavioral or mental health issues to provide encouragement and remove that feeling of being alone.
I'm not sure how the system is structured. Are you living in the UK?
Well, I was thinking in terms of the US health care system. It may be out of the system but there are support groups for people who may have behavioral or mental health issues to provide encouragement and remove that feeling of being alone.
I'm not sure how the system is structured. Are you living in the UK?
It is frustrating, especially as that 'cure' or elusive something is most likely intrinsic.
I live in New Zealand. Our health care system is largely government funded.
I have access to some of the local services.
The area I live in is relatively small and therefore doesn't attract the specialists who tend to gravitate more towards the larger centres.
The ironic thing is that if I asked I could possibly access a nurse, a social worker, a psychiatrist and a T but none of them actually help with my situation.
Doctors here only advocate medication or ect, nurses only monitor your mental state, the social worker is pretty inept as are the T's.
The T I was seeing said he was the most qualified to see me (he was also head of the psychology department) yet therapy with him was also contra-indicated (for many reasons, some being ethical).
I'm not aware of any support groups in my area. The ones that I have tried to access say that their role is to support the family and not the individual. ??
I have accessed support from Lifelink Youthline -a phone counseling service. I have a good rapport with one of the guys there. The person is good to talk to but it's not the same as therapy. And this person only does duties occasionally. It could be the same as seeing a dental hygienist versus seeing a dentist. Not sure.
I'll wait and see if my GP contacts me. He said he would try and speak to the doctor before tomorrow.
I don't think I've ever been well enough to make a formal complaint but maybe I need to revisit this. I don't just think it's unacceptable to treat me like this but how many others are being treated like this too?
Maybe this could be a starting point?
I'll let you know if my GP calls or if the mhs write to me.
I live in New Zealand. Our health care system is largely government funded.
I have access to some of the local services.
The area I live in is relatively small and therefore doesn't attract the specialists who tend to gravitate more towards the larger centres.
The ironic thing is that if I asked I could possibly access a nurse, a social worker, a psychiatrist and a T but none of them actually help with my situation.
Doctors here only advocate medication or ect, nurses only monitor your mental state, the social worker is pretty inept as are the T's.
The T I was seeing said he was the most qualified to see me (he was also head of the psychology department) yet therapy with him was also contra-indicated (for many reasons, some being ethical).
I'm not aware of any support groups in my area. The ones that I have tried to access say that their role is to support the family and not the individual. ??
I have accessed support from Lifelink Youthline -a phone counseling service. I have a good rapport with one of the guys there. The person is good to talk to but it's not the same as therapy. And this person only does duties occasionally. It could be the same as seeing a dental hygienist versus seeing a dentist. Not sure.
I'll wait and see if my GP contacts me. He said he would try and speak to the doctor before tomorrow.
I don't think I've ever been well enough to make a formal complaint but maybe I need to revisit this. I don't just think it's unacceptable to treat me like this but how many others are being treated like this too?
Maybe this could be a starting point?
I'll let you know if my GP calls or if the mhs write to me.
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Ah ok. New Zealand.
I hope your GP can be your advocate in the health care system. I assume its as confusing out here in the US and that sometimes its hard to navigate your way through. If there aren't any support groups in your small area, is there any way for you to find a group possibly farther away?
I hope your GP can be your advocate in the health care system. I assume its as confusing out here in the US and that sometimes its hard to navigate your way through. If there aren't any support groups in your small area, is there any way for you to find a group possibly farther away?
Hi.
My GP has advocated quite vigorously for me but that hasn't translated into anything tangible (except for the paper trail and the voice messages left for him).
I spoke to my GP today. He spoke to the Director of mh again and if the funding is approved then the director/ doctor doesn't have an issue with me being seen by an independent specialist. My GP is away for two weeks and expects a response on his return.
Two weeks when I'm struggling now seems like a long time. A seriously long time.
I told my GP I was prepared to make a formal complaint against the service. He suggested I wait to hear back whether the funding for the independent review was approved or not. I just feel so frustrated. Two weeks for that. If it is approved then another wait to see the specialist. To me it just seems incomprehensible what they're doing. I'm sure dentists are never that unreasonable!
The internet is probably the most accessible and practical resource.
I actually commented on a US doctor in my last post but then thought better of it and deleted it.
This doctor actually came to live here for good but got so frustrated with our health care system he left. I don't know if that makes it any better or worse than your system.
I've taken up heaps of your time. I'll send you a follow-up post about how things go if you'd like. It won't be for at least another two weeks though.
I really appreciate your time and counsel but I feel I should allow you to focus on your forum.
J
My GP has advocated quite vigorously for me but that hasn't translated into anything tangible (except for the paper trail and the voice messages left for him).
I spoke to my GP today. He spoke to the Director of mh again and if the funding is approved then the director/ doctor doesn't have an issue with me being seen by an independent specialist. My GP is away for two weeks and expects a response on his return.
Two weeks when I'm struggling now seems like a long time. A seriously long time.
I told my GP I was prepared to make a formal complaint against the service. He suggested I wait to hear back whether the funding for the independent review was approved or not. I just feel so frustrated. Two weeks for that. If it is approved then another wait to see the specialist. To me it just seems incomprehensible what they're doing. I'm sure dentists are never that unreasonable!
The internet is probably the most accessible and practical resource.
I actually commented on a US doctor in my last post but then thought better of it and deleted it.
This doctor actually came to live here for good but got so frustrated with our health care system he left. I don't know if that makes it any better or worse than your system.
I've taken up heaps of your time. I'll send you a follow-up post about how things go if you'd like. It won't be for at least another two weeks though.
I really appreciate your time and counsel but I feel I should allow you to focus on your forum.
J
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Thanks. I hope you feel better. I'm around if you need a listening ear. Unfortunately I'm not quite trained or capable to help you in any other way.
Unfortunately, I'm sure there are quite a few unreasonable dentists out there too. Doctors are human beings too and there's quite a large variety of personalities in that group.
Unfortunately, I'm sure there are quite a few unreasonable dentists out there too. Doctors are human beings too and there's quite a large variety of personalities in that group.
Thanks! I appreciate it. Listening is sometimes the most helpful thing. Some people who are more qualified to help actually help less. You're a good listener.
It does sound as though some of the other forum members have experienced some of those inept dentists. You do well to guide them though to make better decisions for themselves and their teeth.
I think that psychiatrists are probably an odd bunch to start with.
It's regretful that some neglect to use common sense.
I'll let you know how I get on (in several weeks) or drop by if I feel I need to talk to someone before then. I will try to abstain though.
Thanks heaps for everything!!
It does sound as though some of the other forum members have experienced some of those inept dentists. You do well to guide them though to make better decisions for themselves and their teeth.
I think that psychiatrists are probably an odd bunch to start with.
It's regretful that some neglect to use common sense.
I'll let you know how I get on (in several weeks) or drop by if I feel I need to talk to someone before then. I will try to abstain though.
Thanks heaps for everything!!
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Sounds good. Let me know.
Dear Jerome (Dr Tsang)
I was just following through with that update.
I spoke to my GP today. There has been no feedback from the mhs with regards to his letter or request of an independent specialist opinion. Sigh.
(Probably more amusing was a denture ad I heard on the radio on the way home talking about problematic bites with lisps and whistling, etc.) Sigh.
I was surprised to see you had put a limit on the number of posts. I hope it works for both you and your forum members.
Jackie
I was just following through with that update.
I spoke to my GP today. There has been no feedback from the mhs with regards to his letter or request of an independent specialist opinion. Sigh.
(Probably more amusing was a denture ad I heard on the radio on the way home talking about problematic bites with lisps and whistling, etc.) Sigh.
I was surprised to see you had put a limit on the number of posts. I hope it works for both you and your forum members.
Jackie
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
I don't even know what a limit number of posts is on this forum. I don't really regulate the forum so much as I just check in every now and then and answer questions that pop up to the best of my knowledge. I suppose that medhelp does that for me.
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
So whats the next logical step for you and your GP?
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