Oh dear. I have an unerupted wisdom tooth which my dentist tells me is burrowing its way downwards into my jaw. He eyed me sternly a few weeks ago and explained that if it gave any more trouble he wouldn't touch it with a stick - he'd pack me off to the max-fax people to have it dug out. Probably with a pick-axe and chisels... (sorry, feeling rather gloomy and despondent about this).
Well, the little brute is starting to grumble again and I can't say he didn't warn me. So what about timing? Do I go back to him now or wait 'til there's really something to complain about and hope I can defer treatment until the new year, giving myself more time to plan caregiving cover? I don't know how much time the treatment will take or what it will involve, exactly, but I don't think it's going to be a quick in-and-out job, and I don't want to start the ball rolling and then not be able to stop it.
Stupid tooth. All it had to do was tell up from down, for heaven's sake.
What do you do about nuisances like this?
Thank you, all - so around 3 days' cover all told, we reckon? I'll speak to the care agency and hope we can monopolise our usual lady for it.
I'm sure you're right that any surgeon will probably think it's a fuss about nothing. I might be less anxious if I hadn't seen that stupid x-ray. Notes to self re consultation: 1. Remember to unclench jaw. It will make the examination so much easier. 2. We never bite our surgeons. They are our friends.
It is OK if you don't see your dad every day. Please don't add guilt feelings on top of your depression!
You are on the max dose of your medication now. Perhaps there is a different drug that would help at this point. There are also some non-drug things you can do to combat the depression. Can you talk yourself into taking a walk often? Brisk walking or any exercise is therapeutic. Are you eating a reasonably healthy way? Fresh fruit and veggies and minimal processed food?
Also try to avoid isolating yourself. Yes, being cozy under the covers is comforting. But try hard to also get out and among people. Make plans to meet a good friend for lunch. Go to your church or knitting club or take golf lessons. I know it is very hard to take the initiative when you are feeling depressed, but you took it by posting on here so I'm hopeful you can take initiative to do other things that will help you.
You father is in a good safe place. It is important that you visit him often and that you keep an eye on his health and the kind of care he is getting. But this does not have to be a daily job.
Increase your contact with your husband. Report your increased symptoms to the doctor who is treating your depression. Do as much non-drug self-support as you can. Right now dealing with your own health has to take priority.
I take my ipod & headphones in so I can listen to music or audio books during procedures. Tell the doctor about your anxiety beforehand. There is such a thing as sedation dentistry.
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