Without a doubt, the one physical attribute that gets the most attention on me are my teeth. I have huge, relatively white, straight teeth. Oh my god you guys, what you don't know...my mouth is a big hot mess.
What I am about to tell you will probably make you run directly to your dentist. I've always taken pretty good care of my teeth. I brush twice a day, floss a few times a week. I had braces when I was in grade school and would go to the dentist when my mom would take me. I actually liked going and having my teeth gleam when I left.
Around my sophomore year in high school, I remember my dentist starting to comment on my gums and how they were receding. They began watching them, closely. The next few years they talked about surgery on my gums. I just kept saying that they weren't that bad, that I could wait another year.
Somewhere in there, I went on a spring break trip to Miami Beach to visit my favorite cousin. While we were there he told us that he had just had gum surgery. He hadn't been able to eat much besides super soft foods. His mouth was starting to feel somewhat healed and he was ready to eat! He took us to one of his favorite Italian restaurants and we started with bread. Crusty, delicious, Italian bread. He was being so careful. And then he wasn't. He told us that his stiches had opened. I promptly stood up, walked myself to the restroom, and passed out. On the bathroom floor. Out. My imagination had gone wild and I could just picture what was going on in his mout. Blood. Pain. Gross. But also, I knew I had the same thing in store.
I went to the dentist a few more times, each time with more anxiety about what I'd hear. Then, I stopped. Straight up, just didn't go anymore.
I moved to Florida and didn't want to search out a good dentist.
I got pregnant.
I was busy with a toddler.
I got pregnant again.
I had two kids at home.
I was too busy taking my kids to their dental appointments.
I had all the excuses. I have run out of excuses. It's been 7 years since I've been and I 'd like to keep the teeth that are currently living in my mouth.
Tomorrow I'm starting over. I am seeing a new dentist and I'm ready to face the music. I'll do whatever I need to do- It just better not entail dentures that click when I chew.
4 comments:
I'm not stalking you, your post popped up in my reader as I was checking it. Also, love that you are back!! So, how's the neighbor?
yikes! I have horrible gum resession too and I dread the dentist! Every time I have to go I make sure the hygenist that cleans my teeth knows if she hits one of those spots I might start swingin'! I'm anxious to see how it goes for you. I haven't been in a couple years...
OMG! You remember that? You have beautiful teeth so keep them that way. If anything ask the dentist for a good hit of the laughing gas...always worked for me!
Nice story! My youngest brother is going to the dentist next week for a dental check up and teeth whitening treatment. I'm trying to encourage him to push through with the scheduled dental visit. Know why? He wants to postpone the said dental visit. Thankfully, there are many competent dentists Hattiesburg area practitioners who are willing to help my brother's teeth clean and healthy. Most of the families in our area trusted the friendly dentists Hattiesburg M.S.-based dental service providers because of their professionalism and quality services. Thanks for sharing the thought-provoking post, Anniem! I liked it very much.
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