My inspiration for this post came from my dear, longtime blogging friend, Debbie @ Musings by an ND Domer's Mom, who is not only a gifted...
I was without health insurance for two years, so I put off going to the dentist for some work that desperately needed to be done. I have a lot of previous dental work that's been in my mouth for decades, such as: old fillings, crowns, and bridges. And eventually what happens is that all that work needs to be replaced because it doesn't last forever. I take good care of my teeth as far as brushing, flossing, and using an oral rinse created by a dentist that not only kills germs, but also effectively fights gingivitis. I've been using it for years because it really works to keep my gums healthy. Without healthy gums, it doesn't matter how great your teeth are.
But regardless of how good you are at oral care, you still need to see a dentist for things that only a dentist can do.
Back in the Fall, I decided to take early Social Security because I knew that it included Medicare. But because Medicare doesn't cover everything, I was aware that I needed a supplemental plan. And after painstakingly going through the process of choosing a plan, I also had to choose a new primary doctor and a dentist. And because I see a dentist more than a doctor, I am very particular about choosing one I feel comfortable with. After searching my insurance catalog for in-network dentists, not only did I find one, but I also noticed that he was located directly across the street from my apartment building. Can you freaking believe that?!?
I filled out all the necessary paperwork for new patients on their website, and then walked over to his office so that I could get a feel for the place. And the second I started talking to the two receptionists, I immediately liked what I felt because they were very down-to-earth and seemed to genuinely care about their patients. They made me feel extremely comfortable, even though I was somewhat embarrassed about not seeing a dentist for two years.
So, I made my first appointment for x-rays and a full examination.
And I've got to say, that first appointment went very well. The gentleman who took my x-rays, the dental hygienist who examined my teeth, and the dentist who was assigned to me were all wonderful, which made me feel that I was in good hands.
And what I especially loved about the dentist was his whole bedside manner. He was gentle, compassionate, and took the time to explain to me what needed to be done. He put me completely at ease. I instantly trusted him. Upon getting home that day, I did some online research and found nothing but rave reviews from his patients, which didn't surprise me.
So, I made my follow-up appointment to begin the process of getting my teeth back into shape, which will take several months because there is a lot of reconstruction needed; therefore, we have to take it in phases.
Phase 1
Six Extractions
All of which were removed last Thursday. Yes, I know that six extractions sounds extreme AND painful, but they had to be removed to make room for the two bridges that will be going into my mouth. I have to be honest, the extractions were painless (under a local anesthetic), and the recovery was quick. As directed by my dentist, I took a prescribed Ibuprofen before the anesthetic wore off, just in case I experienced any pain. But I have to say that I felt only a slight discomfort, so I never needed to take another pill. And my gums healed incredibly fast, with no swelling and very little bleeding. He also prescribed an antibiotic because he discovered a mild infection around one of the teeth he extracted.
What I really appreciated about him was that he was extremely attentive during the surgery, constantly making sure I was okay. And he worked swiftly, so that all six teeth were out in 15 mins. His numbing shots were also painless, even the ones that he had to inject on the roof of my mouth.
I give this dentist an A+ and 5 Stars.
Phase 2
New Crowns
I'll be getting two new crowns because the older ones are shot to shit.
Phase 3
Tooth Scaling
It's been awhile since I had a deep cleaning; therefore the hygienist suggested a tooth scaling.
Phase 4
The Bridges
And the final phase will be two bridges - one on the lower right side of my mouth, and one on the upper left side.
And after that, everything will be completed!
So yeah, I feel tremendously blessed -- I found a dentist who I completely trust, who takes my insurance, and is located right across the street.
And that's a great feeling of relief.
I'll finish now with some dentist humor...
Have a great rest of your week, everyone! 💗🦷
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)