Former Emmerdale star Gemma Oaten has revealed her new smile after being left with no teeth following her anorexia battle.
The actress – who has been open about having battled an eating disorder – posted photos of her new smile on Instagram alongside a moving message detailing how she ended up losing all of her top teeth. Expressing her gratitude to her dentist, she said she had experienced “years of neglect and disdain” from others in the profession.
Gemma, 40, said her journey had been “challenging” and thanked the dentist who fixed her smile, saying he “changed my life”.
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She wrote: “It’s taken me a while to share this, but I feel it’s time to open up about a deeply personal experience. Two and a half years ago, I underwent dental surgery that included losing all my top teeth, a consequence of the years I battled an eating disorder and a dentist who put crowns on top of rotting teeth without telling me…”
(Image: Instagram)
The star – best known for playing Rachel Breckle in the ITV soap – shared snaps of her new smile as well as throwbacks from when she was younger, and images of her removed teeth.
“Many will remember I had the surgery for the implant bridge in July 16th 2022, but for any new followers I wanted to share and update,” she went on. “This journey has been challenging, & while I’ve spoken about it before, sharing this part of my story feels right at this time. I’m at peace with it.
(Image: Instagram/ @gemma.oaten)
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“I hope to encourage others who may be facing similar struggles. Remember, it’s okay to seek help and take steps toward healing.
“Since, I’ve learned even more about resilience and self-acceptance. Each day has been a step toward rebuilding not just my smile, but my life. It hasn’t been easy – there have been moments of doubt & fear – but I’ve also experienced incredible support from friends, family & the most amazing dentist – @drharrydavis.”
Sending a message to anyone who was struggling, she said: “You’re not alone.”
“It’s okay to seek the help you deserve,” said the star. “Healing is a journey and every small step counts. We must break the silence around these topics.”
(Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images for Mike’s Mobile Revue London)
Gemma also praised her dentist, saying he “saw me for who I am & treated me with kindness & respect after years of neglect & disdain from other dentists”. “You never made me feel ashamed or less than, & for that, I’m forever grateful,” she said.
“Thanks to you Harry, five weeks ago you gave me my permanent teeth,” she said. “It’s taken me a while to process it all and share, but today felt significant as I can’t wait to start panto rehearsals tomorrow @Grimsbyauditorium & show them off! You’ve truly changed my life, and I can’t thank you enough.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
