Vicki Williams, 49, from Morecambe, Lancashire, narrowly escaped death after hiding severely decayed teeth beneath cosmetic veneers.
She first noticed pain in her lower wisdom teeth on May 2 but, due to a long-standing fear of dentists, relied on ibuprofen and clove oil instead of seeking treatment.
By May 5, the pain became unbearable, prompting her to call NHS 111 and be referred to Queen Victoria Hospital. Unable to open her mouth properly, she was prescribed a two-week course of antibiotics.
The next morning, her swelling worsened, making it difficult to breathe, and she was rushed to Lancaster Royal Infirmary.
Doctors performed three operations to remove numerous teeth and drain a severe infection.
During the third procedure, Vicki was placed in a five-day induced coma. Her lower wisdom teeth and most upper teeth were removed. After nearly a month in hospital, she was discharged.
Vicki revealed that anxiety and embarrassment over her dental health led her to cover her rotting teeth with a £500 set of temporary veneers purchased online.
“They looked like Hollywood teeth, but the decay underneath was severe,” she said. She now hopes her story raises awareness of dental neglect and urges people never to ignore toothache.
Vicki has begun treatment at the Dental Education Centre and is on the NHS dentist waiting list to restore her remaining teeth and fit dentures. She emphasized, “Going to the dentist is minor compared to what I endured. Don’t let fear risk your life.”
