don't laugh too hard

[bobsuzla]

This is an odd question, I know. But does any one have any experience snorkeling with a partial upper plate? Due to a very bad car accident, I have a partial(five top front teeth)which is sort of like a retainer, as it hooks onto my back molars with wires, I have noticed that the masks my dd uses in the pool tend to "push" on my plate causing it to slip, and I don't use/never have used adhesive, never needed it> Suggestions or stories? I should probably just get over my fear and go get fitted for a bridge, or do the implants as was originally planned, but I am such a chicken! This is just one of those visible scars from an accident over 14 yrs ago, but it reminds me every day how lucky I am to be alive, chicken for the dentist, but alive.

PS I have a hip replacement too, had it since I was 18! (Just an interesting fact about me )

 

[Twinave]

Practice with a snorkle, or take a lesson. You do NOT have to bite down on the month end of the snorkle. Your jaw should be relaxed, (unclenched) while you swim.
Hope this helps.

 

[MO64RN]

You are much too young to have a partial. Get a bridge or the implants. You have plenty of time before your cruise. Just think of the self confidence and beautiful smile you will have. Dentisry has changed so much. Don't be scared. It is worth it.

 

[mickeyboat]

Not laughing - but...

This weekend I went to Minnesota and rode on a tube behind a speed boat. My aunt has a partial and spent the whole time on the tube holding her mouth closed because her teeth were falling out.

Denae

 

[jerry112]

As a dental hygienist in a periodontal office, I see people getting implants weekly these days. Our office has done hundreds by now without any problems. All patients come back so much more confident and happy they had the implants. They also say that it wasn't much worse than an extraction as far as pain and discomfort afterwards. All would do it again, if necessary. Bite the bullet and go for it! You'll be so much happier and confident and you'll enjoy your DCL trip that much more!

Good Luck
Karen

 

[thevolcanogod]

If you decide not to do the dental work before you go, you might want to shop around for different masks. They all fit to your face differently and often feel quite different. There will be a bit of a "push" on your upper lip from all masks - the silicone has to make a seal. But the mask shouldn't be that tight against your face while you dive - relax those straps until it is a bit more comfortable. Chances are if you were using your daughter's mask, her being 9 years old, it is more than likely a child sized mask and would probably not fit an adult face very well.

Dive masks are one of those pieces of equipment that you must try on - each one feels different on your face and fits differently - and a poor fit can make your experience miserable. If you have a SCUBA store in your area, give them a try - they can help you get one that fits you properly.

 

[kcashner]

Try out snorkel equipment before you leave. DD had trouble with one type of retainer, but now has a different type that's no problem.

 

[bobsuzla]

Thanks for the advice, I am going to start looking for a good oral surgeon tomorrow. I have the time to take from work this year since I am not using any of my vacation time to actually go any where! I am just scared!!! Cluck cluck