Learning the Curve

As many of you may know, I have always had a difficult time with my dental health.  Recently I made a large decision that would no doubt impact the rest of my life.  Through much consultation, I made the decision to have my remaining upper teeth removed and have a denture.  This decision has been an emotional roller coaster for me.  While it is a relief to be done with the constant pain, this has been a life changer for me.  Physically, I am still in quite a bit of pain due to the swollen gums.  But, for me that is only the minor adjustment I have had.  Emotionally, well, I am still holding onto the roller coaster.  Today is my first day back to work. My first real social exposure.  We will see how the day goes.  I know they look great, it's just an issue of self confidence.  Only a few days into the experience and I am learning that this will definitely be a time of growth for me.  Here is the mental game.  Will I EVER be able to eat a taco again?  Will it EVER just feel normal to have them in?  Those NEVER and EVER thoughts swarm around you like a bunch of bees, buzzing in your head.  Yes, worry.  However, I have tools to combat worry.  You fight worry with facts.  Facts are this:  People eat all the time with dentures.  You are less than a week out of surgery, pain and swelling will impact the way you eat.  There will be changes and adaptations that will need to be made in certain food circumstances.  So, time to flip the negativity.  1) It's an instant diet plan  :-)  2) Your smile has never looked better.  3) You were able to eat cheesecake without any problems (It's my favorite)  So, overall, if I can keep that trigger flipped into the head part instead of the emotional heart part, I know I can do this!  I, as always, have a lot of support surrounding me.  I am young and adaptable.  I can and will do anything I set my mind to.  So for today, I shall conquer my breakfast fear.  I have oatmeal and know I can eat it!  Until next time........chow on!