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July 15, 2006
Tooth out!
The page I was handed after my oral surgery(7/13/06) This morning I was unfortunate enough to have had removed my left mandibular second premolar (Tooth number 20 to those in the dental know). The unpleasantness of this experience was compounded by the fact that I have already spent nearly $1,300 on this tooth as of late in a root canal and a crown. One wonders why I hate dental visits so much, and then one realizes as I check out that I've been hit with another $185 bill for the extraction, and then one is satisfied that my apprehension is justified.
I only have myself and the misdeeds of my past to blame. In the first place, adequate dental hygiene habits never appended properly despite the best efforts of my parents. Furthermore, during the worst of my drug addiction I used a substantial amount of crystal meth, traditionally a large contributor to tooth decay.
A card I received on Folsom Street in San FranciscoCrystal methamphetamine, or "Tina", as it is known affectionately by its users, is an enemy that combats the well-being of teeth on numerous fronts: dry mouth from reduction of saliva potentially caused by meth overuse, cracked teeth due to clenching or grinding, general immune suppression associated, and finally poor nutrition and basic hygiene neglect. It's a wonder I have kept the teeth I have.
I have had all four of my wisdom teeth out, but the feelings surrounding the loss of those cannot compare with the removal of this tooth, great price tag notwithstanding. It's a loss for which I have little resolution.
Right now there's nothing but a sad little hole in my underbite. My tongue wants to explore the gap.
Having a tooth missing is certainly a mood depresser.
Posted by Bastique at July 15, 2006 10:13 PM