horrible teeth

[kkr21]

I never really took good care of my teeth when I was a kid. I'm 20 now and my teeth have never been this bad. In my mid-late teens they would bleed a tiny bit when I brushed my teeth and hurt a bit if I ate a lot of chocolate. Now my bottom gums are swollen and when I floss they move a little bit. The part of my gums closest to my teeth is a much lighter color, light pink to white. Also, I have a good amount of cavities and still need to get my wisdom teeth out.

I brush my teeth every morning and night (I have for the past couple of years.) Just recently I started flossing every night and I use a flouride mouthwash.

Also, last February I began taking Lamotrigine (Lamictal) for epilepsy and I head that it can cause teeth problems for some people. Could the medication be causing these problems? Could the problems be reversed? Is there any way to treat this?

[kkr21]

Someone from another forum mentioned that his/her dad also has epilepsy and has the same problems. I'm hoping its just the meds, but that persons dad is 50 and I'm only 20. I'm afriad mine might have gotten pretty bad really fast, considering my age and the time I've taken my meds vs. that persons dad.

[StratRebel]

I would suggest finding a good dental home where you can go to for questions like this.  This is something a dentist would need to see clinically and look at your entire history to come up with the best solution for you.  You sound like you are on the right path, and you have great questions to ask, be sure to find someone who will take the time to personally answer these for you.

[scottma]

Seeing a periodontist to take care of your gum is advised.