Finally visited dentist today, first time since 2016, the year Baby-F was born. I went to get my wired retainer glued back on, and also booked a hygienist appointment, which a friend had been nudging me to do while we were on speaking terms.

I was really scared going in, and chest pain flared up more strongly than usual. Apparently I have gum disease in one of part of my mouth 🙁 That’s what comes from avoiding something because of fear and leaving it to fester for too long.

Anyway, the hygienist put numbing gel on some parts of my mouth. I did tell her about my fears and asked her to please put numbing gel or make it less traumatic, if she doesn’t want me to avoid the dentist for another 7 years. And in the end it didn’t hurt *as* much as it would have / previously did. But the way she went to work on my teeth was quite violent. But at least it feels like I got a really deep clean. I’m really really glad I finally went. Before it’s too late. She suggests that I go back in 3 months’ time. I need to be diligent and I suppose start doing this once a quarter. And maybe I’ll get used to it over time, and find it less traumatic. In any case, I need to.

My mum also went into surgery today. This evening Malaysia time. Apparently the procedure should last ~4 hours. When I asked my dad how the surgery went, he was cryptic as ever, and I just can’t get a straight answer out of him. I’m sure she will be fine. It’s apparently a very standard procedure.