I’ve been hoping it would go away, but the pain was only getting worse. Not all the time, but on and off. That made it easier to pretend it wasn’t actually a problem.
But yesterday night the pain woke me up. I knew once I said it out loud, once I told Jon about it there was no going back. And I needed that little nudge from Jon, to hear him agree that it was time to call the dentist.
It seems that since I turned 60 in January, I’ve had one medical issue, both physical and emotional after another. None of them things that wouldn’t heal, but it was beginning to make me feel old.
I’ve been fortunate when it comes to my health. I just have to adjust to the reality of my body getting older and in some ways wearing out.
I’m also fortunate to have a good dentist.
When I called yesterday, they got me into the office right away. It seems the tooth is infected and heading towards an abscess so I need a root canal. My dentist recommended a specialist who could do it the next day.
One of my big fears about having a root canal was the money. The last time I needed one about ten years ago, it would have cost $5000. (Like many people I don’t have dental insurance) I had the tooth pulled instead.
I don’t know why it’s less expensive now than it was then. Maybe it has to do with condition of my tooth or the dentist or a little of both. So when I found out it would be less than half of that, I was thrilled.
Might sound strange to be thrilled to have root canal, but my tooth has been a problem in one way or another for over a year and I’m looking forward not having the pain and sensitivity. I’m also grateful that I can have it done so quickly.
So that’s what we’ll be doing today. Jon is coming with me, like most things around here, the specialist is an hour away. I know I’ll appreciate his company and being driven home.
Knowledge is power. That goes for the cost of dentists too. Speaking to myself as much as you here.
So very true Kj!
This sounds strange and won’t necessarily stop the need for root canals but swishing or pulling coconut oil every morning for 15 minutes will give you an incredibly healthy mouth. My dentist told me my teeth and gums looked great. I have always had dental problems. Look it up on google. It’s an ancient practice. I think you can use olive oil too. Just a tablespoon or so.
Intersting Linda….
Oh, boy…..I can relate, Maria, as I am going through a similar situation with a tooth right now. So grateful that my dentist was able to get me in with an urgent appointment and start the root canal. I will be seeing an endodontist on Monday for further treatment. You must have had a “dead nerve” like I did with a subsequent infection starting in there..Ugh..
I was lucky Donna, got to it just before the nerve died. He was able to do it all in two hours. Today I have no pain or sensitivity at all! I hope the same for you Donna.
Hi Maria,it’s good you got sorted at the dentist,and on the road to recovery.
Take care x
:)
So glad everything went well at the dentist! I hated the dentist for such a long time and then needed some poorly done dental work repaired. I love my current dentist, he never made me feel bad about my fear of dentists like several others had and now after 3 years with him I actually feel good going to the dentist! Glad you and Jon had a sweet Thanksgiving!
To me it makes all the difference having a dentist I like and trust Josie. I’m so glad you found one too.