Got out of work early due to a periodontal appointment with density, not destiny. Teeth that I’ve had pulled back in the day, back in the eighties have come back to haunt me much like the dentists said as they were yanking out corroded molars. Unlike then, I have insurance now and the periodontist, Dr. Fine tells me I need extractions and implant. I sort of knew about the extractions and though I wasn’t looking forward to it, I knew it would have to be done. And implants would be needed to replace on the lower right and upper left. And the cost for each action? About $3000 or so. And the insurance will only cover the extractions, at 136.00 per extraction, 80% would be covered.

So I have that to look forward to. Tonight’s visit was all about filling out forms and hearing Dr. Fine tell me his suggestions after looking at my x-rays. His assistant got on the phone afterwards with an outsourced person in India reading from a script and a ‘tree’ of sorts. The ‘tree’ was if the answer is yes, then go to this section. If the answer is no, go to that section. So tree-like. Down the line there will be decisions to be made and big money to be spent.

So I’m feeling rather blasé. At least I don’t look like Shane MacGowan from the Pogues. I work with quite a few Brits, and they have rotten teeth or in need of major work so teeth talk goes on from time to time. The insurance plan covers $1000 a year, which I’m sure they can afford, but with me in the lower caste I don’t think it’s feasible. My mother had not so good teeth and had removable bridges I’m sure. I remember them moving about sometimes in her mouth. Perhaps Annemarie could clarify with a comment, that is if her computer is working again.

Tonight I go see the Slits at McSwells. I plan on seeing some old friends there, Charlie, who I used to DJ with, Stan, the Susan Sher and possibly Rand. Rand is not going for the show, just for a pint. I had the Slit’s album for a long time. A friend of Stan’s and mine, Dave Bell turned me onto the Slits. I knew Dave through my brother Brian and it was through Dave that I met Stan. I haven’t heard from Dave in quite a long time and it would be nice to see him if he shows up. Last I heard about Dave, was that he was coaching wrestling at Bergen Catholic and it being a school night I wouldn’t hold my breath on Dave showing up.

I have a memory of coming back from New Hampshire with Annemarie ages ago, me with a boom box playing ‘Typical Girls’ from the Slits album, ‘Cut’. Annemarie wasn’t, and still isn’t a typical girl. Hooray for Annemarie! Now about Mom’s teeth….

Work was ok yet again. Felicia ruffling Linda’s feathers. Somehow she was able to leave work even earlier than me and told, not ask, Linda to watch the phones after I leave at 4:30. Linda of course ran up to me complaining about this. I was planning on playing hooky due to the visit to the periodontist. I was going to play the swollen gums/intense pain card but as of right now, not going to. I will go in tomorrow. Save hooky for another time.

I do plan on having a good time tonight, illegal dress. Song is back in Sydney, totally missed him while he was here. I’m glad he made it back safely. Juan’s birthday is tomorrow. I’m glad he’s making it to nineteen safely.