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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! 💗🦷






32 comments:

  1. First, let me say I’m so sorry you have to go through all this, Ron. It sounds dreadful! Good job on the research to find the right supplemental insurance and the right dentist. That is incredible that he’s right across the street. You don’t want to be taking public transportation when you’re woozy or in pain. Having the procedures all planned out ahead of time takes away some of the anxiety because I always feel like the not knowing is the worst part.

    I am blessed to not have any dental issues and have never even had a cavity. I thank my dad for passing on those genes. It’s just about the only body part that hadn’t given me problems!

    Good luck on the next phase and don’t eat any taffy! Lol!

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  2. Aw...thank you, my friend. But I have to say that I'm totally okay with this. Yes, it'll be a big production to go through, however, it's one of those things that needs to be done, so I just have to do it. And honestly, I love this new dentist, so I feel as though he'll take good care of me. I just feel so blessed that I found him because he's awesome!

    And yes, having everything planned out takes away the anxiety of not knowing. It will most likely take until the end of the summer, early fall when everything is completed.

    "I am blessed to not have any dental issues and have never even had a cavity. I thank my dad for passing on those genes. It’s just about the only body part that hasn’t given me any problems!"

    OMG....that's AWESOME!!!!!! I'm blown away that you don't even have a single cavity. BRAVO!!!!

    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Hope you're having a great week so far. It's starting to get very hot and humid here again. OY VEY!

    X

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  3. Ron, isn't it something how teeth issues are always expensive AND involved? It can never be anything simple. Over the years, I've had some major work done on my teeth as well. I had issues with my gums and previous dental work that wasn't done properly, so it was only a matter of time before it needed to be fixed.

    I am so happy to read the you found a dentist you like and trust, that's so important.

    I really enjoyed the dentist humor you shared. I see NUMB people. LOL! One of my favorite films.

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  4. Ron, one of my many things I've always admired about you is your ability to handle challenges that come up in your life and not be all negative about them. You always look to the positive side of things.

    I am so scared of dentists (even when I go for my yearly x-rays and exam) LOL! I've got a great dentist too. I've been going to him for the past 5 years. He sounds a lot like yours. Very compassionate and gentle.

    I can't believe how well you went through the surgery and healed so quickly. And you only had to take ONE pain pill? Amazing!

    I laughed my ass off when I read the quote about my dentist said I need a CROWN. Hysterical!

    Keeps us posted on your progress, Ron. Have a great week! xo

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  5. Hey there Candice!

    "... isn't it something how teeth issues are always expensive AND involved? It can never be anything simple. "


    OMG, yes...you got that right! And it's funny because I'm pretty much a very healthy person, however, whenever I do have issues, it's always something about my teeth. Like you said, I've had previous dental work in my mouth since I was in my early 20's, so it's always been about work being redone because it's old. But THANK GOD I have healthy gums because my father didn't. He had a lot of gum issues as he got older. Back then people only brushed there teeth, they didn't floss or use any oral rinses other than the original Listerine, which is full of alcohol.

    Yes, I'm so happy that I found this new dentist. I feel soooooooooooo blessed!

    HA! Don't you love that saying? I thought is was so funny. Mine too! That movie will always be one of my favorite suspense films.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Hope you're having a fantastic week!

    X

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  6. Hola Denise!

    Thank you for your sweet words. The thing I've learned the most about any of the challenges in life is that I didn't kill me. They can be a bitch, yes, but I try to look at the positive side of things because sometimes that's the only you can do. And I'd rather focus on the positive than the negative because it makes the negative less negative. LOL! Beside, it is what it is, you know?

    Yes, I know so many people who feel the same as you. I don't enjoy going to the dentist, but I guess I've had so much dental work done that I'm used to it. Glad to hear you have a great dentist too because it really helps.

    My dentist told me to take the Ibuprofen BEFORE the novocaine wore off just as a precaution. Like I said, there was a slight discomfort, but nothing big. I took one. Now I have a full bottle of 800 MG Ibuprofen sitting in my medicine cabinet.

    "I laughed my ass off when I read the quote about my dentist said I need a CROWN. Hysterical!"

    Isn't that hilarious? I laughed too when I saw it.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, Denise. Hope you're having a fab week so far!

    X

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  7. Seaside SimplicityWednesday, July 07, 2021

    I'm so sorry about the extensive dental work you are having to go through, but very happy you found a dentist and dental team you are comfortable and happy with. The fact that it's right across the street is a fantastic bonus! Glad you already have the very worst part, the extractions, behind you. It's all downhill from here.

    The dental humor is pretty funny, especially the last one lol!

    Have a great day Ron!

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  8. Gosh, Ron, this sounds soooo painful! I'm glad to hear, though, that you found the whole experience reassuring, quick, and relatively easy ... all things considered. Mouth pain is the worst for me. I'm not exactly patient, and waiting in a dentist's chair while my mouth is wide open -- knowing there's bound to be discomfort, at least -- is excruciating.


    It's funny you wrote about this though -- I, too, went to my dentist just yesterday ... and learned I have a cavity. Oh no!! I, too, take awfully good care of my teeth, but as you said, things happen. Our teeth get older right along with us, and dental work doesn't last forever. Still, it doesn't seem to have the planned obsolescence that, for example, light bulbs or refrigerators have!!


    Here's to the job's completion -- and a fresh, sparkling smile! xx

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  9. Holy crap, Ron, you really got pulled through the ringer!

    Six extractions?!? Carumba!

    Sorry you went through all this misery, but I'm glad it was relatively painless and that your dentist and his staff are so nice, and that they are so freaking close!

    Be careful, he might be spying on you with a telescope, making sure you brush after every meal--like "Rear Window." (Just don't let him see your rear!)

    I recently found a good dentist so I know how good it feels to have someone you trust taking care of your chompers. My dentist and I always joke around to a point where he'll put the hose in my mouth just to shut me up!

    I'm hope you're feeling better, buddy. Now go wear your crown proudly!

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  10. Hey there, Martha!

    Thank you. Me too! I am soooooooo happy I found this dentist (and team) because it made the Phase 1 a great experience. And I'm actually looking forward to my future appts because I'm anxious to get this done.

    " Glad you already have the very worst part, the extractions, behind you. It's all downhill from here."


    Yup...you said it! It's all downhill from here!

    Isn't that last dental humor funny? I found them all online.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Happy Mid-week to you!

    X

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  11. Helloooooooooooo there Debbie!

    I know, it sounds painful, but like I said, it wasn't at all. He numbed me so well, that I couldn't even feel my legs LOL! And when the anesthetic wore off, I had just a mild uncomfortableness, but nothing bad at all.

    "Mouth pain is the worst for me. I'm not exactly patient, and waiting in a dentist's chair while my mouth is wide open -- knowing there's bound to be discomfort, at least -- is excruciating."

    I know what you mean. The anticipation is the WORST. That's why I couldn't wait to make the appointment, get in there, and get it over with. I was SO relieved after he was finished. And like I said, he was very good at what he did.

    Oh noooooooooo....a cavity?!?! OMG, if I could tell how many cavities I had in my mouth since was a kid, you'd die. Overall, I am a very healthy person. However, over the past 9 years, I've had to deal with old dental work going bad.

    "Our teeth get older right along with us, and dental work doesn't last forever. Still, it doesn't seem to have the planned

    HA! You're right about that!!

    Thanks so much for stopping by and for your kind words, my friend. Hope you're having a super mid-week. It's been very hot and humid here lately. OY VEY!

    X

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  12. Hey there Rob!'

    I know, six extractions sounds like A LOT....and it is. However, for him to put the new bridges in, he had to make room for them. I've had bridges before, and one of them he's replacing. They other will be new.

    Honestly, I'm very relieved that this part if over with. And I have to say, the whole experience was not bad at all. I didn't know what to expect after the extractions, but I was amazed how little pain I had, and how fast my mouth healed.

    "Be careful, he might be spying on you with a telescope, making sure you brush after every meal--like "Rear Window." (Just don't let him see your rear!)"

    HAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHA! OMG...that is so funny!!!!!!!

    "I recently found a good dentist so I know how good it feels to have someone you trust taking care of your chompers. My dentist and I always joke around to a point where he'll put the hose in my mouth just to shut me up!"


    HA! Funny you mentioned that because my dentist was the one who was doing all the talking that day, and it was so hard for me to talk back because my mouth was numb from the novocaine and was filled with so many contraptions.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, buddy. I'm actually feeling very well. Still taking my antibiotics and doing my warm water and salt rinses several times a day.

    Have a great rest of your week!

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  13. How I could identify with this post, Ron, being one who has dental issues all my life. Like you I will be having a bridge replaced this year. Unlike you, I will be self-financing this undertaking. Thank goodness I do have the $$ needed so that's not an issue. Like you, I also brush regularly, although flossing is not as often instead I am a faithful user or an oral irrigator. Even the dental hygienist has issues stringing the floss through so imagine my frustration I tell them every time. My dental visits are 4X a year, alternating between a dentist and periodontist yet there are always "issues."

    It seems like heredity plays a big part as my late mother had dental issues as does my brother, my only sibling. My regular dentist agrees because he's just only 10 years younger than myself and also has had lots of dental procedures!

    Good luck to both of us. Glad you found a good plan and even better, a GREAT dentist.
    No pain after extractions is a VERY good thing to report -- may it continue that way.

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  14. OMG, D, you too?!?!? Isn't it the pits? And doesn't it seem that everything goes at once?

    " My dental visits are 4X a year, alternating between a dentist and periodontist yet there are always "issues.""

    WOW!....FOUR times a year!?!?

    "It seems like heredity plays a big part as my late mother had dental issues as does my brother, my only sibling. My regular dentist agrees because he's just only 10 years younger than myself and also has had lots of dental procedures!"


    I agree because my father had teeth issues too. And yet, my family comes from a line of very healthy, hearty people, except when it comes to teeth. One hygienist told me years ago that my teeth build up plaque very quickly. Apparently, my teeth are like magnets for plaque. I also have a lot of old dental work that needs replacing because it's been in there since I was in my 20's.

    Yes, I am so happy to have found a good insurance plan, plus a good dentist. I feel so lucky!

    May the force be with us both!

    Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing your out story. Have a great rest of your week!

    X

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  15. Thanks Ron for the support, also forgot to comment on your graphics in this post…loved all of then especially that first one😀

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  16. HA! Yes, I love the first one as well! It's not only funny, but so dang cute!

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  17. Yikes Ron, I had pain my mouth just READING this! I think it's incredible that your dentist extracted six teeth and your didn't feel a thing. Did you choose a local anesthetic or did he give you the option of a general? I know me, I would have needed a general.

    I am so happy that you found a good insurance and a great dentist. My girlfriend and I are on the same insurance plan (with her job) and it's excellent.

    Love the dentist humor! That first one cracked me up!

    Wishing you continued success on your upcoming teeth reconstruction phases, dude!

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  18. Ron, I am so happy to hear that your first phase went so well! Unbelievable that he was able to extract six teeth without pain (during and after) and that you healed so quickly. I am petrified of going to the dentist, even for a cleaning LOL! And how great that you found one across the street from where you live. It was almost destiny that you found him!

    At our age, my husband and I also have had issues with older dental work being replaced as well (my husband more so than me). But that's what happens as we age. It's only natural.

    I love your attitude about going through this. And this post reflects your humorous and positive way of looking at things. You GO, boy!

    Hey, are you enjoying this ungodly heat we're getting slammed with? Me neither.....:( We get a break in a couple of days though.

    Have a great rest of your week, Ron xo

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  19. Hiya Matt!

    I know, it sounds painful, but I swear to you, it wasn't.

    " Did you choose a local anesthetic or did he give you the option of a general? I know me, I would have needed a general."


    Funny you sound ask that because when he initially told me that he would be extracting six teeth, the first thing I asked him was, "Do you have to do that with a general anesthetic, or can you use a local, because I prefer a LOCAL?" And he said, "I'm going to use a local, not a general." And I said, "Great, because I don't want a general."

    So yes, I was happy that he did it with a local because I don't like being knocked out with a general anesthetic for something, unless it's absolutely necessary.

    Ooooo....and good for you that your girlfriend and you are on the same plan. More and more companies are offering that today, which is so awesome!

    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Have a most excellent rest of your week!

    X

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  20. Helloooooooooooooo Elaine!

    Thank you! I too am too am happy that it went so well. Yahoooooooooooooo!

    " I am petrified of going to the dentist, even for a cleaning LOL! "

    Ha! I know so many people who feel that way! Can imagine being a dentist and having people being constantly afraid of you?

    Yes, I agree...it was almost like destiny that I found him. In fact, I even thought that several weeks ago.

    And you're right, as we age, it's only natural that this type of work needs to be address. It's only natural.

    For me, the most productive way to move through things is to look at the bright side because if I have to do something, I might as well find the positives.

    OMG...I am HATING this heat! I literally couldn't spend much time outside yesterday because the heat and humidity just drained me. I ran a few errands, but that was it. And I drank so much water yesterday!

    Have a great rest of your week too, and stay cool!
    X

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  21. I'm soooo glad you found a dentist you really like and that he's that close by!! Also nice to hear that the staff made you feel comfortable and cared for. Six extractions does sound like a lot all at once, but since you're healthy and were taking very good care of your gums, I'm not surprised it went well. I'm sure you treated yourself to the healing energies of Reiki too!!
    OH, I've had years of dental work. Some of it went ok, but other procedures... whew... not without discomfort. I've even been seen on emergency appts. for things that broke and swelled and throbbed. LOL My dentist is great though. He's drilled and filled and root canaled and scraped and glued and pulled and poked himself around my mouth for decades. Always tries to take care of my numerous issues. He's treated my kids, Ron, and other family, too. But his office had some staff changes and we weren't liking some of it so it's been a bit of a bother. Ron has great teeth, and takes better care, so he's not ready to go back in. I actually had to force myself to get a couple things taken care of recently, and will be needing some old work to resume soon too. Once in the chair I'll be fine, we chat up a storm, or rather he talks and I shake my head and gurgle... oh, ahh, eh, mm, uh huh. Not much you can say with a drill in your mouth and water and suction going on. LOL I get to add to the conversation after rinses and spits. haha

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  22. Aw....thank you, Mary! Me too! Great staff, great dentist! I feel very blessed. I go back next week for my next phase and I'm actually looking forward to it. And I'm happy to hear that you like your dentist as well. That's makes a world of difference, doesn't it?

    " I'm sure you treated yourself to the healing energies of Reiki too!!"

    Ha! You better believe it! In fact, I was doing Reiki on myself while he was extracting my teeth and I know that was a major reason why things went so smooth, during and after.

    "Once in the chair I'll be fine, we chat up a storm, or rather he talks and I shake my head and gurgle... oh, ahh, eh, mm, uh huh. Not much you can say with a drill in your mouth and water and suction going on. LOL I get to add to the conversation after rinses and spits. haha."

    OMG, that made me laugh because my dentist was doing all the talking when he was working and all I could do to respond to him was saying "AH...AH!" Or I would hold up my hands and do sign language. HA!

    Thanks so much for stopping by, and sharing your dentist stories. Enjoyed them! Have a faaaaaaaabulous weekend, my friend! And I see we're going to have a break in the heat. THANK GOD!

    X

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  23. Ron, you are one BRAVE man! Kudos though that it all worked out for you only on a general!

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  24. You are lucky to find a close dentist you can trust. Lots o' work to be done. But when it's done you'll be so thankful!!
    Have a terrific day Ron

    http://hootin--anni.bligspot.com

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  25. Thanks, Matt! And meeeeeeeee too!

    X

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  26. " But when it's done you'll be so thankful!!"

    A-MEN! And that's exactly how I feel. And if things so as planned, all the phases will be complete by the end of the summer, or early fall.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, Anni! Have a grrrrrrreat weekend!
    X

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  27. YOWZA, Ron....six extractions?!? That's sounds painful just hearing that. But honestly, I am so happy that it was painless for you and that you had such speedy recovery. That's awesome! You're like Superman LOL!

    My yearly dental appointment will be coming up at the end of the summer. I go in once a year just for a checkup. I feel so lucky that I've not had any big issues with my teeth. I have a few fillings, but that's it.

    Continued success, Ron!

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  28. Hi there, Daniel!

    I know, doesn't it SOUND painful? When he first told me that it would be six teeth, I'm like, "Isn't it going to be painful?" He was like, "Nope...all you'll feel is just some pressure when I work, but no pain." And he was right.

    "My yearly dental appointment will be coming up at the end of the summer. I go in once a year just for a checkup. I feel so lucky that I've not had any big issues with my teeth. I have a few fillings, but that's it."


    That's SO GREAT! You're so blessed not to have any issues with your teeth. I started getting work done when I was a kid (fillings), and then as I got into my 20's I had root canals and a bridge installed. And those are the things I'm having to replace.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, Daniel! Always nice to see your comments. Have a super weekend!
    X

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  29. Ps...thanks for visiting and complimenting my ostrich sketch Ron.

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  30. LOLOL! I love the last funny! Right?! I took early social security but I'm not eligible for Medicare yet...so I have to keep my day job for health care benefits right now. Entrepreneur is on Medicare and has been very happy with everything so far. Dental visits are very important as the health of our teeth is very telling about the overall health of our bodies. Sorry you are having to go through all this, but your pearly whites are worth it! X

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  31. Hey there Lisa!

    Here in PA, you are eligible for Medicare at 65 (which is when I started my Social Security). However, I have to be careful about how many hours I work until I reach 67 (full retirement age in PA) because that's the age when I can work as many hours as I want and STILL get my SS. Therefore, right now I'm only working PT.

    "Dental visits are very important as the health of our teeth is very telling about the overall health of our bodies."

    Yes, you are absolutely correct. Our teeth affect our overall health of our bodies.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Hope you're having a FAB week!

    X

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  32. Oh, you are so welcome! It's FABULOUS!

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