I am ashamed of my teeth as they have become more and more crooked and stained through the years. I admit, I do not get regular cleanings like I should. In fact, it’s been years. They are sensitive and hurt. So a couple weeks ago I bit the bullet and went with the intentions of getting another bad tooth pulled. That’s usually how long I wait to go. I can’t afford root canals so I have had three pulled in my life.
During my visit, the dentist took an xray and examined my hurting tooth. He said, “We are not going to pull this tooth. I see nothing wrong with it and your pain is just tooth sensitvity”. I was given a tube of special toothpaste and advice to come back for a full exam.
So yesterday I went for the full dental exam. I was scared and nervous that It was going to be painful. After the dentist took full xrays, he began stabbing my gums with a prison shank. It was not comfortable, but It was bearable. I’m glad that’s over.
Good news: I did not have any cavities or serious issues. No bone loss and my gums are healthy. I was so surprised! I just suffer from tooth sensitivity.
Bad news: I need a couple old fillings replaced, one crown and .....braces.
This is a big deal for me. I need to think about seeing the orthodontist about the braces. This is a decision I will need to make. I do not have dental insurance and my health insurance breaks me each month. I mentioned braces to Nick and he is not 100% on board.
He’s thinks my teeth are fine the way they are but I know they are not, but do I really need to go through all the expense when I can just have the fillings fixed and have them bleached of the stains? I may loose sleep over this one.
The plan: I have a cleaning scheduled in two weeks. I am already nervous just thinking about that. Yikes. Then I plan to call and set up a consultation with the Orthodontist just to see what braces will cost me and whats all involved. I just paid my car off so maybe I can afford a payment plan. I just don’t know. I don’t want any bills.
I would love to have pretty teeth. I would feel better about my appearance and smile a lot more, but then again, I am 50 years old and could live out the rest of my life with them crooked and save a few grand. Decisions, decisions.
Do you have braces or ever had them? If so, what is your experience?
