A nurse has been forced to retire early after having almost all of her teeth extracted allegedly brought on severe malnutrition. 

Annette Aldridge, aged 55, a dermatology nurse from Epping, had to cease working following severe malnutrition which she suspects to be a consequence of having almost all her teeth extracted. 

Ms Aldridge originally went to the dentist with a loose tooth and said she was shocked when she was told her all her teeth would need to be taken out due to an infection.

Following the procedure, Ms Aldridge was left with one molar and two front teeth

Annette from Epping, Essex, said: "As a nurse I cannot function. I can't eat during the day as I would have to take my teeth out.

"I can eat at night but I go to bed thinking that this is no life.

"In March I handed my notice in, as much as I don't want to give up I can't carry on."

Mrs Aldridge was given dentures that she claims are unfit for usage and frequently fall out of her mouth.

Annette continued: "The dentist who fitted them had left.

"I had a new dentist who said I would have never been suitable for this denture.

"They gave me a new set that didn't stay in my mouth - I couldn't even eat with them."

Having reported the second set as not being fit for purpose, Anette was given a third set of dentures, each set having already cost her £300. 

Four months post-procedure, she reported a two-stone weight loss due to eating difficulties.

The NHS Hertfordshire and West Essex Integrated Care Board (ICB), said: "We can’t comment on an individual’s experience but we would encourage them to contact our patient experience team at the ICB directly so that we can look into their concerns."

"If anyone has questions or feedback about dental services, or if you do not think you are getting the dental treatment you need you can contact the Hertfordshire and West Essex Integrated Care Board (ICB) patient feedback team at hweicbwe.patientfeedback@nhs.net"

Investigations into her possible malnutrition are ongoing.