LONG TERM POST OPS-ANSWERS ON BAD TEETH!

This is the latest update in my teeth going to pot since surgery in November 2001. My surgeon did some research, talked to collegues as well as the American Bariatric Surgeons group (don't know the exact name sorry!). Anyway, there have been studies done and YES we do tend to have a LOT of dental problems a year or more post op. Even those of us who never had a problem before. Here is what the research says so far.......... 1. The high amount of protein in our diet plays a crucial role. The proteins mix with the saliva in our mouth and lead to break down of the enamel and surface area of the teeth. So if we don't IMMEDIATELY brush our teeth after each meal the proteins attack our teeth. Since our main food group is protein we are especially prone to this. 2. We are a bottled water society. Most of us heard that we needed to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day but didn't do so until post op. Well if you are like me I grab water in a bottle. Bottled water lacks the flouride that is found in tap water. This also allows our teeth to get thin and brittle. Combine #' 1 and 2 and we are at risk for some serious teeth problems. These are just the initial findings and there are most likely many more studies to be done. I thought you guys might want to know where the thinking is currently in the field of Bariatrics. Unfortunately, we are and will continue to be at risk for the rest of our lives for poor oral health. Again, I must say it is a small price to pay for my life. Guess I will be toting a toothbrush everywhere I go and drinking from the tap more! AMY

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