If I’d been a horse, they would have shot me by now. Lots can be told about the total health of a horse by looking at its mouth, which I’ve heard can be said of humans, as well. Remember stories from years ago when potential foreign brides had to pass the cursory test of good health before being allowed to immigrate and marry? Good teeth don’t run in my family. I never would have passed.
As I type this, I’m twenty-four hours post surgery. I’ve got stitches from one side of my gums in the front to the other side. This is the second surgery and fourth root canal — all for one tooth! Last year I lost two important molars due to cracked enamels or roots. I lost three teeth twenty years ago due to the effects of chemotherapy (after successful recovery from breast cancer!). All this, coupled with the four permanent teeth I had removed as a child before braces and four wisdom teeth gone because of impaction. Are you getting the picture? My teeth are getting as thin as my hair. I’m surprised I can still chew!
Between my dentist, my endodontist, my extraction dentist, and my periodontist I have single handedly paid for the wedding or college of at least one of each of their children.
Believe it or not, I’ve always taken good care of my teeth … faithfully performing daily routine maintenance. Despite that care, I’m clinging to my remaining teeth. On some days, I’m all “Take them! Just pull them all out and let me wear false teeth!” My dentist looks aghast when I say this, but it’s just the frustration of so much time and money spent on the less-than-healthy mouth that bemoans my frustrations.
And how is it decided who gets a mouth full of gleaming pearly whites versus a mouth that guarantees a lifetime of dental office visits? I’m sure genetics plays a huge role.
After I catch my breath from this rant, I get quiet, relax, and remember that the effects of getting older are sometimes hard. AND I remember that I have plenty to be grateful for, like a mouth that works and a few remaining enamels scattered about to catch and munch the sustenance of my life.
I love that last line, ‘the sustenance of our lives’. What exactly is that? I am sure the idea varies from person to person. But it seems to me, to just stop and notice life and my participation in it brings an awareness of the miracle itself. To get old means to be apart of this wonder of existing. I just heard Ray Carver’s poem again where he poses the question, “Did you get what you wanted, even so?” He goes on the say yes, and what did he want? To know himself beloved. Now that is some sustenance to munch or smack on about…
Well, Ruth, in regard to my mouth, I meant food. But I appreciate what you’re saying … especially about ALL the miracles of life we are a part of. I wouldn’t have it any other way! Thanks!
Hoo boy, yes! You’re singing my song, Antonia! I had my first cavities when I was two years old and it’s been all downhill from there 😉 Like you, I do all the right things…brushing, flossing, eating “good for me” foods. But nope, the teeth and gums still behave badly.
Have you noticed how our mouths are the only part of our bodies that apparently requires consistent outside intervention, no matter what we do?? The rest of our anatomy, if we exercise, eat right, don’t smoke or drink too much and generally live a pure and good life (give or take), will, unless some terrible disease comes along, mostly respond with stable good health for many years. But teeth? No-no. With teeth we’re supposed to see a professional every 6 months, in addition to endless personal upkeep, or they respond with gum disease, tooth decay and general bad behavior, for no reason at all, other than sheer perversity!
They’re like that difficult person in the room, always demanding attention, even if they’ve already had more than their share. And if they don’t get it, they’ll have a hissy fit and make us sorry we ignored them 🙂
End of tooth rant. And you have my deepest empathy for your current dental woes. Sounds sooo painful. Hope you feel better soon!
Oh, Katie, it’s good to know there are others who can relate to my rant today.
At this writing, I’m completely healed and able to munch again!
Thanks for reading and sharing your perspective … I always enjoy it!