I am a 46yo male, with a history of heart problems - VSD repair, aortic valve replacement and more recently congestive heart failure.

Over the years I have maintained pretty good dental health (fluoride toothpaste, regular brushing etc.) though like many for my generation, probably more fillings than you would expect today). However in the past 12 months, I seem to have developed a number of problems:

1. an opening gap between lower right and left #1's

2. More worryingly, progressive fracturing of cusps at the gum line, such that LR7 & LL4 are now only exposed roots, while LL5 & 6 are half teeth with broken cusps and lost fillings.

As a result of the progressive decline of the UK dental service, I haven't been able to get to a dentist for over a year, but hopefully have an appointment in September with a dentist some distance away.

I'm obviously very concerned about this problem and fearful of what can be done. I don't relish the prospect of dentures at my age, and because of my health and morbid obesity, any surgery to remove the roots etc. would be inadvisable.

Can you throw any light onto why this problem seems to have developed? Could six years of diuretic treatment be a factor? I drink around two pints of milk each day, so I can't see calcium deficiency is a factor. Also, what other treatment / prevention options should I explore?

Many thanks in anticipation.

Nigel

Optional Information:
Male , Age: 46