I know this isn’t the norm for a subject. But I realized recently that I quit chewing on the left side well over a year ago due to the pain, I just had no idea why. And before this I began not brushing as often, again due to the pain without knowing. Now, due to the not brushing my teeth are in sad shape, and I mean SAD and I’m so ashamed to admit this. They need professionally cleaned but 2 years ago the dentist told me it would have to be in 4 different sessions due to the amount of decay that is present. Well, we didn’t have the money then and we still don’t have it now. And I am so afraid of loosing my teeth. Even if we had the money with the amount of tooth pain I am having there is no possible way I could sit through one cleaning, let alone four of them. Please someone tell me that I am not the only one going through this! I feel so stupid for talking about how gross my own teeth are, I’m sorry!
Hi AliBaby~ I can understand where you are coming from. I go every 6 months to have my cleanings and I double up on my meds before I go. My new dentist is very aware of my pain and will always get the pain-free side of my face done first. The hygenist I had this last time (the beginning of July) was very hard on my mouth. I will never get her again. I am still sore a month later from having my teeth cleaned. I know that my dentist offers sedation for any procedure and maybe you could ask your dentist for this option. We don't have the insurance coverage we used to have but I make sure I go every 6 months. Our dentist offers Care Credit and then we can make payments without interest if it is paid off in 6 months to a year of procedures. I don't know where you live but maybe you could ask the dentist to work with you on some sort of payment scale or program. I wish you the best and hope others here can give some options.
Mar
Oh Ali, don't feel bad, I haven't been for two years, and I don't plan on going ANY time soon. It's strange even when I felt better with the pain meds, like you I don't really chew on that side. Funny how the nerves all talk to each other.
I really just don't have any desire to sit in a dental chair. Don't know know IF I ever will again. Peace, Min
i need 10 teeth pulled from decay and a new bridge. i cant bring myself to go.
Great topic, AliBaby. During the good times, I have to be extremely gentle on the right or I can trigger a short event or prolonged attack.
When the bad times come and the pain has broken through the meds, eating at all is a major challenge - brushing is out of the question. Nasty, yes, but I’m glad you brought it up. I need to acknowledge that reality. That’s one the great strengths of this board and the good souls who come here.
Peace
Many thanks to Mar, Min, Jackie, Elaine, and Craig,
I really felt stupid for even broaching this subject, so I thank you all for letting me know that I am not alone in this fight and that my problems are also your problems. My oldest daughter Somer found a dentist nearby who charges according to income so in Sept. I am going in just for exam and X-rays for 50 bucks which is a good deal. They promised over the phone that he would do whatever it needed to keep my comfy! And in the mean I will use a good mouthwash and really soft brush when I can. Love to you all!!
Ugh ! Teeth!
thinking of 10 and implants. yikes!
Yeah, that sounds really good Ali, I am happy to hear he is gonna work with you on this. Peace, Min