Clean Teeth

Drew was supposed to have his teeth cleaned today, but the dentist needed to change the time of his appointment, and I didn't want him missing school. Since I had to cancel my last cleaning, I volunteered to take this appointment at the later time and make another appointment for Drew. I am curious if I can even get through a complete cleaning. If I get a coughing jag I will have to quit. I pray for a cough-free dental time.

I warn the hygienist ahead of time. She understands and is willing to do whatever it takes. She has been worried about me because I cannot go long between cleanings due to my compromised immune system. I need to keep my mouth under control ( a good trick if you can do it!). I manage to mostly be cough free. The cleaning goes well and my mouth tastes so minty and fresh.

She gives me a new softer toothbrush and lots of dental floss. Then I head in to be seen by the new dentist - a specialist who deals with many cancer patients. She spends a good while checking things out under the auspices of digital technologies of all kinds.

Only one tiny cavity, but my teeth have evidenced more places where a small piece has fractured off. I will need to have repairs done. Then she discovers an infection around one of my molars. I will need to see a specialist in another clinic to have that dealt with. My immune system is no place to harbor an infection.

She recommends two different mouthwashes to help with the dryness in my mouth and the resulting bacterial buildup. One during the day, one right before bed. Sigh. Its never ending, the fall out of the radiation chemo track. At least this time no more teeth have fallen out. Thank God for that.