Dental Implant Appointment

[Brielle]

I had an appointment this week with a specialist for dental implants. In brief history, I was missing about half my adult teeth (something genetic, as my breother and a niece had similar issues). So, growing up, I wore a partial upper which was a pain. Anyway, i had almost all my permanent teeth ground down and bridgework and caps put in about 17 years ago. I joked that I had a toyota in my mouth, because that’s what it cost!

This year, my regular dentist warned me the upper work was a risk to fail, since the few teeth I had were shifting and putting strain on the bridge. I need a full upper arch with implants – ouch, both physically and financially.

Now comes the good parts! Since my upper arch is not as wide as the lower, they can angle the implant posts outward slightly and fit me with a wider bridge. This will give me a wider smile and will change my lower face a little. I told both dental practices I’m trans, and they will put in the order as for a female patient. So I’ll have a feminine smile as I socially transition in January!

For my appointment, I figured they should see me as I will be, so Brielle drove over for the visit. The waiting room was nearly full! At first, I caught my breath, but I figured no backing out now, babe! I signed in and took a seat. Even more people came in. I was the only feminine presence there with a dress and sling-back heels (giggle). But I didn’t “glam out”, thank goodness.

The tech called me back by my cis-name, but there was only one lady left there at the time so no major anguish there. The appointment went fine, and the techs treated me as if I was in normal presentation – at least someone could have complemented me on my dress, or sweater, or shoes, anything! But it was fine.

After they finished, I went back up to give them the five-figure down payment (gulp!) and a sweet little eldrely woman came up beside me to check oiut too. She smiled and showed she was missing a number of teeth herself, and proudly told me she was getting new dentures and was so excited. I answered that I was getting implants and bridgework on the top. I didn’t attempt a femme voice, really, and I expected her to at least do a double take or look at me strangely, but she didn’t even seem to notice. I didn’t need my car – I could have floated home on that affirmation!

Morale: besides the obvious one of taking care of your teeth (giggle), it’s just get out there and live your authentic, best life. I live in one of the most “white bread” conservative areas in Pennslyvania, and most people just don’t care!

Hugs, and hope this uplifts someone who is fearful of what others think,

Brie

[Marg Produe]

That’s fantastic Brielle!  Your post is so uplifting.   This must be the season for dental work.  Just this week I had six new front crowns to replace my crumbling front teeth.  My dentist also adjusted mine out to replace my lost feminine smile.  I just love my new look.  I’m sure that your transition will be fantastic.  Smiles all around, Marg

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