A New Experience – Finally

For those reading this blog, you have read about my experience with the complete removal of my top teeth back in January to February. Today, I had the last appointment walking out with my new upper denture. This is going to be a new experience for me.

Like my mother, we both had problems with dental hygiene because of our smoking and coffee drinking. Back in 2000, most of my front teeth were crowned to prevent further decay. However, in 2018, it was determined the crown were failing, I had some loose teeth and it would be best to just pull them and get a full upper plate.

After a series of oral survey appointments, I sat down for my impression for my upper plate. Then COVID-19 struck. I was left with no upper teeth. I thought I would be embarrassed having a hard time eating, talking, etc. In reality, I had to change my diet a little (soft foods only) but managed as best I could day by day.

After a series of more appointments when the office recently opened, I finally received my upper dentures today. As mentioned by the dentist, I have to learn how to eat, how to speak, etc. I can’t even say my last name without slurring the words *chuckle*. One nice thing about these dentures is they aren’t like the old dentures requiring any adhesive. I just put them in, swallow and they’re in. I took them out to sleep and I won’t wear them at work just yet. I should only have to wear them periodically until my gums get use to them otherwise I may get sores.

So now this chapter in my life is closed. Honestly I’m not sure if I’ll return (except for adjustments) to the dentist for further work. He appears to be like others who treat managed care recipients one to do extreme work when its not necessary. But that’s another story.

I’m just glad this whole affair is over, yet a new one begins.

The Toll

Part of me, my alcoholic side, wants to just shut down this whole job business. The two mile walk to and from work, the eight hour work day, working in extremely cold temperatures during the shift is all taking its toll. Many times on my day off I’m playing catch up with everyone else running around all day after being up all night. Waking up an hour ago felt like I got hit by a two ton truck in my sleep and it’s not helping at all. I’ve just completely mentally, physically and spiritually tired and its NOT okay.

I know I should not make excuses. I don’t want to make excuses. I’ve wrecked my body over the years, strenuous job activity like this is almost unbearable. I hurt from head to toe when I come home. Sometimes I feel like if I stand up I’m going to fall right down. My hands hurt so much when I try to make a fist to a point of seizing. I’m mentioned before I applaud those in the retail/warehouse business who can bust their assess all night long stocking shelves both young and old. I just don’t know if I can do it anymore.

Today I had an appointment with the dentist. Another stage in getting my upper denture. Still probably won’t have it by the end of the month. Actually I’m not sure. With the new job I won’t have transportation through Medicaid for much longer so my hope is it’s sooner than later.

Didn’t get home until after 1pm. Just slept a good eight hours but tossing and turning with aches and drippy nose. It won’t surprise me if I’m coming down with something. Besides walking to work in the cold, at approximately 5am almost every morning we have to gather carts in the WM parking lot. The other day is was -12° with windchill. So I’m sure my exposure to the extreme cold is not helping either. Of course I don’t have any cough syrup. But I”m going to head to a Byrne Dairy (gas station, small market) to see what they have socked. I don’t care what the cost. I need to head any sickness off at any cost. Meanwhile, it’s just one cup of coffee and a bunch of water for the rest of the night.

Monday night I was down for the count. I was so tired I just wanted to sleep. My motivation was no where to be found. I did just that watching Bull Season 2. Took naps here and there thinking I would be refreshed and ready for my dental appointment. I was still yawning through the dental appointment to the disappointment with my dentist.

Meanwhile my to-do list is growing at an alarming rate. I have two counties I need to send recent pay stubs so they can officially close my case. I’m actively looking for an apartment to rent. I have some AA District business to look into. I just feel overwhelmed and procrastination is winning.

Today is not the day to fill my mind with unnecessary things. It all doesn’t have to be done right now. If I don’t drink lots of water and get lots of rest I’m going to have further programs. I can, however, set a new priority in my life by looking for another job.