Gemma Oaten shared that she lost all her top teeth after a personal health battle.
The Emmerdale actress played Rachel Breckle on the show from 2011 to 2014, before reprising the role briefly during the following year.
While her character was killed off-screen in 2019, the soap star has maintained a big following from her time in the village.
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In an emotional post, Gemma opened up about a “deeply personal experience” she experienced over the past few years.
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. 2 & 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 & a dentist who put crowns on top of rotting teeth without telling me...
“Many will remember I had the surgery for the implant bridge in July 16th 2022, but for any new followers I wanted to share & update."
She added: “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. I hope to encourage others who may be facing similar struggles. Remember, it's okay to seek help & take steps toward healing.
“Since, I’ve learned even more about resilience & 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 - @drharrydavis2.”
The Emmerdale star spoke to other people dealing with a similar struggle, telling them “you’re not alone”.
Gemma added: “It's okay to seek the help you deserve. Healing is a journey, & every small step counts. We must break the silence around these topics.”
She penned a series of thank yous to the people that helped her along the way.
“Thank you all for being part of my journey,” she said. “The main thank you is to the most amazing dentist in the world, Harry, who 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. Also to the amazing @hrisithchoksi & Kat. Thank you.
“Thanks to you Harry, 5 weeks ago you gave me my permanent teeth. It's taken me a while to process it all & 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, & I can’t thank you enough.
“For anyone needing help with their smile I can't recommend Harry enough. In tears just thinking of all he's helped me through. Incredible. Here’s to new beginnings & brighter smiles! You matter”.
English (US) ·