Dental Overachiever

on April 6, 2011
in All Posts

New personal dental record!

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One appointment, six cavities!  Ughhh… And that’s why you should go to the dentist more often than once every 3 years, kiddos.  I need to do some investigation about the “white” fillings the dentist (who was great) is recommending.  I am obviously against metal fillings because of heavy metal issues, and I feel equally wary about putting plastic in my mouth permanently.  Any advice?

 

Oh, am I the only one who thinks the best part of going to the dentist is the free toothbrush you get at the end?  Score!

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The Husband made breakfast this morning:

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Watermelon spears, two over-easy eggs, spinach, tomatoes, and a slice of toast.  Very good, but even better because I didn’t have to make it myself.

 

Lunch was eaten at the clinic – just a PB sammie and a banana.  Not very appetizing, but it worked.

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Thanks so much for all the comments on this morning’s life/balance post.  More than anything, I think it’s very interesting and enlightening to explore how we REALLY feel about the things society says we *should* be doing (or looking like).  Sometimes we put expectations on ourselves and others that we don’t really want at all!

 

I also really appreciated the comments on parenthood.  Although I know that there’s usually no “perfect time,” some times are definitely better than ever.  I would not enjoy being pregnant at this time in my life – I really don’t I could be pregnant and write a book at the same time (delivering this book is hard enough!).  Hopefully, we’ll get to that place soon – having a BabyHTP would be very fun!  I hope we have a redheaded little girl, and I plan not to speak to her for the first five years of her life so she gets a British accent from her Daddy.

 

Kidding.  Sort of.

{ 137 comments }

 

  • Zo April 6, 2011, 2:02 pm

    Sorry to hear about the cavities. I just sweated out my last dental appointment on Saturday. My boyfriend skipped for a few years and now has thousands of dollars of work ahead of him. Not fun.
    I’m sure baby HTP will be adorable. My brother lives in England and I have two young nephews there whose accents are endlessly entertaining (although it’s taken me a while to be able to understand them)!

  • Lesley April 6, 2011, 2:03 pm

    Oh, that sucks! I haven’t been to the dentist in about 3 years either, and I’m scared for my appointment next month. Scared.

  • megan @ blackberries for jam April 6, 2011, 2:04 pm

    You poor thing! I once had a 4-year lag between dental checkups, and although I didn’t have any cavities, my new dentist went CRAZY with the scraping on my teeth. Apparently, I had a lot of plaque. I still fear the dentist because of that experience!

  • Brittany (A Healthy Slice of Life) April 6, 2011, 2:05 pm

    6 cavities? You win! 🙂

    I agree with your post that as women we put too much pressure on ourselves to overachieve in every category of life. The second I’m excelling in one, I feel like I’m lacking in another. But I’m working on it!

    PS- I agree though that there is no perfect time to become a parent. I certainly wasn’t ‘ready’, but now I’m loving feeling baby thumps in my belly, even with the stress of my own business and figuring out everything else that goes into life, too!

  • Angela (Oh She Glows) April 6, 2011, 2:08 pm

    Sorry about your dental visit! I hope it all works out for you. I had to foot a couple major dental bills recently for a broken filling…it’s never fun to hear that kind of news.

    No shame in waiting for the right time! Eric and I are big planners and we want to make sure we have enough money saved and in the right position in our life to bring another being into this world. I find there is a lot of external pressure for women these days, but you have to do what is right for you. It’s a huge responsibility!

    • Caitlin April 7, 2011, 9:44 am

      Yea – HUGE responsibility that I’m not just sure I am ready for it!

  • becca @ bellebottoms April 6, 2011, 2:10 pm

    Question: is there a deadline for submitting entries for your book??

    when you mentioned “delivering” a book, it reminded me! (btw…nice pun!) 🙂

  • Kara April 6, 2011, 2:11 pm

    The last time I went I had like 6 cavities too, all between my teeth. I got the non-metal fillings and they seem fine to me. Don’t be stupid like me and only get one side done at a time. I got them all done just to be over with it and I was miserable.

    You better make sure to take notes during your pregnancy and early motherhood, I’m sure there are at least 2 more books there 🙂

  • mitzi @ my nikon eats food April 6, 2011, 2:12 pm

    i’m so scared to go to the dentist…i haven’t been in years! don’t wanna know how many cavities i have! good job for finally going =)

  • Alayna @ Thyme Bombe April 6, 2011, 2:13 pm

    6! Yikes! I got some sort of white fillings put in my teeth when I was a kid that were meant to prevent cavities. Guess what? I have never ever had a cavity, and I have a major sweet tooth! Some of that is genetic though, some people are just more prone to cavities than others.

  • Julie (A Case of the Runs) April 6, 2011, 2:14 pm

    Okay, I’m gonna get to a dentist ASAP (in a couple of months, lol).

    I love accents! I’d probably try to do the same thing with my kid if I were in your situation. It could work. My cousins have the British accent, and after spending lots of time with them, I noticed I was talking a little differently.

    • Julie (A Case of the Runs) April 6, 2011, 2:15 pm

      I got my old silver fillings REPLACED by white ones a few years ago. Had to do 2 sessions so they wouldn’t numb my whole mouth at once. It wasn’t THAT bad, but maybe this is why I haven’t been to the dentist in a year.

  • Michelle April 6, 2011, 2:14 pm

    I haven’t gone to a dentist in far too long either. I really need to get on that! Thanks for the reminder.

  • Megan @ Healthy Hoggin April 6, 2011, 2:14 pm

    Aw, sorry about the cavities!! I’m not much better at going to the dentist… I only go once every 2 years, since my insurance doesn’t cover it. I do think, however, my Sonicare toothbrush has made a HUGE difference in my dental health! My dentist recommended it to me (knowing the frequency of my dental visits) and I’ve had practically no problems since!

    • Carrie April 7, 2011, 12:18 pm

      I COMPLETELY love & endorse the Sonicare toothbrush as well – my husband & I both got one last year (after my mom drove me crazy for months about how we must get one ASAP), and neither of us has had a cavity since!

  • Lucy @ The Sweet Touch April 6, 2011, 2:15 pm

    I heard the plaque eventually starts “protecting” your teeth after a certain point:D I have the white fillings and I think they are fine, good luck!!

    • Caitlin April 7, 2011, 9:45 am

      Hahah my plaque is definitely doing it’s job.

  • Freya April 6, 2011, 2:15 pm

    Oooh my mum once went about 5yrs with no dentist and had to get 7 I think! I haven’t been for 2years…but now I’m scared to, since reading this! I don’t want them to drill my mouth apart!!!
    Free toothbrush? My dentist doesn’t do that! He doesn’t even give stickers if you’re good :'( no wonder I don’t want to go.

  • Ryane April 6, 2011, 2:16 pm

    Totally just lolllled at that last part ; )

  • Victoria April 6, 2011, 2:16 pm

    All I know is that my dentist recommended the white fillings as well, so I got them, and then I was shocked when I got the bill. They are significantly more expensive – and most insurance plans won’t cover the additional cost.

    • Casey April 6, 2011, 2:56 pm

      My old dentist told me that they are considered cosmetic, which is why they won’t pay the additional cost. He also said that if the cavity is large, the white fillings may not be good enough. Apparently the metal ones are stronger or something?

      I should probably mention that I stopped going to this dentist. He told me that I had a ton of cavities (even though I felt no pain). I was skeptical, so I went to another dentist, and he said I had none!

      • Marie April 6, 2011, 9:07 pm

        This happened to me as well…went to one dentist who said I had 3 cavities. Went to another two months later who said I had NONE! I chose to believe the latter. 🙂

    • Caitlin April 7, 2011, 9:46 am

      I’m paying out of pocket – wahh!

  • Holly @ The Runny Egg April 6, 2011, 2:17 pm

    True, there is no “perfect” time to have a baby — and I like that you and your hubby are being smart about it and waiting until you are ready. Some days I feel like having a baby, but I want to be sure we are as ready as we can be, and we’re just not there yet.

  • Clare April 6, 2011, 2:21 pm

    That stinks about the dental news 🙁 I’m in the process of some super $$$ dental work myself – never fun.

    If you’re concerned about plastics/metals, maybe look into full ceramic/porcelain (not porcelain-fused to metal), or glass ion cement (GIC). Not all dentists use these, and they can be pretty pricey, but if you’ve got concerns, it’s worth looking into.

    Hope this helps, and good luck!

  • Deirdre April 6, 2011, 2:22 pm

    I hadn’t gone to the dentist for 3 years and finally went in late 2009. I just calculated for my taxes and I spent over $5,000.00 on my mouth in the last year and a half (I have insurance!) and that was after a tooth removal, root canal, and 4 cavities. I had brushed 2 sometimes 3 times a day, but I have cavity prone teeth. I still tell everyone now to go to the dentist. It will only cost you more in the end. I now go 3 times a year and own an expensive mechanical toothbrush and I finally got a perfect checkup in January.
    Oh and I have white filings and they’re fine.

  • Evan Thomas April 6, 2011, 2:22 pm

    Woh, I am awful about brushing my teeth and still haven’t had a cavity in about 8 years. Must be genetics, *knock on the-fake-imitation-that-my-desk-is-made-out-of-wood*.

  • Victoria (District Chocoholic) April 6, 2011, 2:25 pm

    My advice is metal (amalgam) in non-visible locations because it is far more durable, and white (composite) in visible locations because, well, it’s visible.

    There aren’t heavy metal concerns with amalgam fittings because there aren’t heavy metals in them – just silver, tin, and copper with a trace amount of mercury that isn’t a health concern http://www.fda.gov/medicaldevices/productsandmedicalprocedures/dentalproducts/dentalamalgam/ucm171094.htm

    • Caitlin April 7, 2011, 9:47 am

      Thanks for passing this along!

  • Faith @ lovelyascharged April 6, 2011, 2:28 pm

    Bleh, no fun. I have no advice for the fillings, but I sure am glad to have dental insurance!

  • Carolyn L. April 6, 2011, 2:28 pm

    My boyfriend’s dad is a dentist, and we get toothpaste, toothbrushes, and floss in our stockings each Christmas! It’s always nice to get some necessities along with all that candy.

  • Johanna B April 6, 2011, 2:31 pm

    I’ve got some white fillings in the teeth which are visible when I smile. I’ve never had a problem with them. I’ve read that you can’t have your teeth whitened after that because the fillings don’t change color with the treatment. You’re kinda stuck with the color the fillings are. Of course, they match your teeth as they are now.

  • Holly @ Food, Make-up Hair April 6, 2011, 2:34 pm

    Sorry about your cavities! I’ve been using Good-Gums for about 6 months now and when I went to the dentist last month there was hardly any scraping – she said I hardly had any plaque, which is not my usual M.O.

    I think the all-natural Good-Gums is what turned it around for me; my teeth feel so clean and healthy all the time now and I love that I’m not putting chemicals or glycerin in my body!

  • Caitlin @ TPL April 6, 2011, 2:35 pm

    Oh no lady! Well at least your teeth look pretty =). And whenever is the right time for you, you and the hus will be amazing parents!

  • Annette @ EnjoyYourHealthyLife April 6, 2011, 2:35 pm

    I love the dentist and the free toothbrushes too!!

  • hippierunner April 6, 2011, 2:35 pm

    The watermelon on your breakfast plate looks like salmon! I was like “whaaaat?”. Lol.

    • Chelsea April 6, 2011, 2:44 pm

      haha me too!! i was like wait is it aprils fools again??

      i gotta get to the dentist soon!

  • Sarena (The Non Dairy Queen) April 6, 2011, 2:36 pm

    Please don’t talk about the dentist…we have not been in 2 years now…UGH.

  • Ash @ Good Taste Healthy Me April 6, 2011, 2:37 pm

    omg! That’s rough! I was very lucky when I went back to the Dentist. NO cavities. I was scared to death I had a gajillion though. I have no dental insurance right now so I haven’t been in a few years again. Ehhhhh makes me nervous. My dental costs as much as my health insurance! I refuse to pay that much a week!

  • Leanne April 6, 2011, 2:47 pm

    You will have a cute red-headed british-accent child with a major complex if you don’t talk to her hahah 😉

    I didn’t comment on this morning’s post but found it very interesting! I think as women, we should do more to support eachother instead of scrutinizing!

  • Joanna@ Drizzle of Sunshine April 6, 2011, 2:48 pm

    Wow that’s a lot!! I had just as many on my last appointment and I don’t even eat that much candy! I opted for the plastic fillings (even though they were more expensive) It’s better than metal and better than a gaping whole in your tooth. Better safe than sorry…. or then again you can make money charging offices to use your cavite pictures to scare little kids. lol

  • Samantha Angela @ Bikini Birthday April 6, 2011, 2:51 pm

    White fillings are definitely better than metal… and better than nothing. Left alone cavities can cause MAJOR pain and problems with your teeth in the future so it’s best that you get them filled ASAP

  • Errign April 6, 2011, 2:51 pm

    I was in the same boat, friend! Never waiting so long to go to the dentist again! I got the “white” fillings, and while I don’t know jack about ’em I do like that they look way better!…that’s probably a bad thing to admit.

    I like the free stuff too, especially because the ladies at my dentist office feel bad that I’m a poor college student and give me full sized toothpastes! haha

  • Susan April 6, 2011, 2:52 pm

    I just went to the dentist after 3 years, and I had around the same # of cavities. Including one under a crown – which means that had to be popped and replaced. Right now I have a temp in, which feels rougher than the original. Haatteeee.

    • Caitlin April 7, 2011, 9:48 am

      We’re cavity twinsies!

  • Kristina @ spabettie April 6, 2011, 2:59 pm

    I laughed out loud when I read “free” toothbrush 😀

  • Heather @ Health, Happiness, and Hope April 6, 2011, 3:00 pm

    Augh, I’m so sorry! I’ve been lucky enough to never have a cavity, but it takes a lot of extra care to keep my teeth that way. Hope it goes smoothy for you!

    Those eggs look fantastic this morning!

  • Jo @ Jo In the Kitchen April 6, 2011, 3:02 pm

    I definitely wasn’t ready when I found out I was pregnant. I was in a very stable relationship with my boyfriend (now husband), but I was a freshman in college. Terrifying to say the least! The good thing was that we knew that we were going to be together, and we just did things a little out of order 🙂
    I ended up staying in college and finishing my degree, and we were married two years later, when we were ready. My son is the BEST thing that ever happened for us, and I can’t wait until we’re financially stable enough to experience that joy again.

    • Caitlin April 7, 2011, 9:48 am

      <3

  • Ida April 6, 2011, 3:07 pm

    I have the white fillings, they’re great! And blend perfectly. Also I love the line about ‘delivering the book being hard enough’:)

  • lauren April 6, 2011, 3:07 pm

    I’m with you, babies will be great…but now is not the right time!
    I go to the dentist twice a year and still have managed a few cavities. White fillings are a bit more pricey, but I think they are worth it. My dentist uses the white fillings on my bottom teeth where they are noticeable. I had a bigger cavity last time and he put metal on the bottom of it and white on the top.
    *In my experience, your teeth are more sensitive for a bit longer then with a metal filling. I was told that is pretty normal. But, I’m a big baby – I’m usually sore for a day or 2 from the Novocaine shot 🙂
    Good luck!

  • Katie @ Healthy Heddleston April 6, 2011, 3:09 pm

    Most of my fillings are white.. but I do have two dark ones — I think because it was before the time in which my dentist started to do white ones.

  • KatieTX April 6, 2011, 3:10 pm

    My husband to be has strawberry blonde hair and I have reddish brown hair. We are both pale with freckles. I am hoping for the same thing you are 🙂 I want red-headed babies! I will be shocked if I don’t!

  • Theresa @ActiveEggplant April 6, 2011, 3:11 pm

    Ugh – the dentist & cavities. No fun at all! BUT, I have experience with the metal/amalgam fillings…that’s what I always got when I was growing up (because they were cheaper & mom’s insurance paid more towards them). I never had a problem until now. The problem with the metal/amalgam? They shrink over time-like years and years time-which can lead to more decay and/or your tooth cracking or breaking. So eventually you have to have them drilled back out an refilled, OR (like me) have them drilled out and have the teeth crowned if the filling is too big!

  • Allison @ Happy Tales April 6, 2011, 3:11 pm

    LOL “I plan to not speak to her for the first 5 yrs of her life” Oh dear… that could lead to some issues! That is funny tho, it’d be SO cute for her to acquire a British accent!

    And sorry to hear about the cavities! That’s no fun…

  • Gwen April 6, 2011, 3:12 pm

    GO WHITE. My dentist took my silver ones out and replaced them with white. Much prettier, but also better long term I think! Disclaimer – my mom worked for the dentist, so it was free 🙂

    Sadly, I’m allergic to “normal” tooth paste (had a sore throat for two years and was SO excited to find out why!) and only use my sonicare, so I skip the freebie. I wonder if I could get a sticker instead next time.

  • Sarah for Real April 6, 2011, 3:12 pm

    That cracked me up about the British accent, you are too funny!

    Don’t you use that Oral-B electric brush? (And is that weirdly stalker-ish that I remember your post/giveaway on it?) I credit that toothbrush, eating healthy, and 6 month cleanings (at only $80 a pop) for keeping me cavity free since… well as long as I can remember. It’s a magic toothbrush I tell ya!

    • Caitlin April 7, 2011, 9:49 am

      I did use it for a while but I switched back to manual – I just prefer it!

  • sarah (sarah learns) April 6, 2011, 3:14 pm

    lol! i know there is no way possible for this to happen as my fiance and i are born-and-bred wisconsinites, but i REALLY want a british child! i can’t get enough of that accent. 🙂

  • chelsey @ clean eating chelsey April 6, 2011, 3:16 pm

    I have white fillings – I’ve never even been offered metal ones. No problems reported here!

    I have to go to the dentish Monday – boo to that.

  • Jennifer April 6, 2011, 3:18 pm

    Go with porcelain fillings!

  • Sara @ OurDogBuffy April 6, 2011, 3:23 pm

    I only have white fillings. I REFUSE to get the metal ones even though they’re cheaper. I like opening my mouth and it looks like I don’t have cavities 🙂 I do not think mine are plastic either. My husband was a red-headed freckled-boy. I love a good bit of freckles (my mother has a ton) and my grandmother had red hair. I am wondering if we’ll have one when we begin to procreate. 🙂 But no accent to gain, darn.

  • Emma (Namaste Everyday) April 6, 2011, 3:25 pm

    it might not just be you, some people just have really big grooves! (I’m thinking plastic is the only way to go, btw)

  • Jessica M April 6, 2011, 3:30 pm

    I didn’t have any cavaties until a couple years ago- I think I had 4! I just had another one on my gumline filled 2 months ago. It actually bothered me quite a bit so I was glad to get it filled. It hurt for about 2 weeks after they filled it! I am relieved the pain is gone now.

    So, I got the Soni-care toothbrush and it’s great. I think that will help a lot. I was using a cheap-o one and I will never do that again.

  • Jaime April 6, 2011, 3:31 pm

    I LOVE going to the dentist. I would totally get my teeth cleaned once a month if insurance covered it! haha, I’m weird

  • Jess April 6, 2011, 3:37 pm

    Aw man, I am dreading going to the dentist now (first time in 5 years). I stopped going once it stopped being free, which is when I left school. Its just so damn expensive!

    Children will pick up the accent of their environment, mostly. My dad grew up in Seattle with kiwi parents and had an american accent, which is now gone since he moved back to NZ when he was 6. She may say stuff in a british way though, or you could move to England… Mind you my friend has an american accent and has never been to the states. It is because she learned to speak english from american TV shows and she picked up the accent!

  • Maren April 6, 2011, 3:39 pm

    hahaha that is horrible!!! but hilarious!!

  • Liz @ Tip Top Shape April 6, 2011, 3:41 pm

    I hate going to the dentist. No matter how well I brush and floss, it’s always bad news. Well, bad news for me. I’m sure my dentist loves all he business he’s getting from me. lol

  • Libbie April 6, 2011, 3:42 pm

    Sorry to hear about the cavities! My dad is a dentist and he says its up to the patient which type of filling to use. A white, resin composite is more expensive, but then you won’t have a mouth full of silver, but the metal amalgam is less expensive and more durable, lasting about twice as long as a resin. Good luck with whatever you choose!

  • Ash April 6, 2011, 3:47 pm

    Amalgam fillings (metal ones) are generally covered by 100% by insurance and need to be replaced about every 10 years. There is no evidence they are harmful to your body. Composite fillings (white ones) are more expensive than amalgam fillings, less frequently covered by insurance, and generally need to be replaced every 2 years. Composite fillings are considered cosmetic dentistry. I’d recommend getting the amalgam fillings.

    • Mar April 7, 2011, 8:13 pm

      Eh? I (and my parents) have had metal fillings for decades upon decades, and see a dentist regularly, with no mention of replacement… to be honest, I’ve never heard of such a thing. However, I agree that they’re not harmful. Phew!

  • Amy April 6, 2011, 3:49 pm

    I never knew so many people wanted to have red headed kiddos til I had one of my own! Hope you get your sweet red headed little girl one day =)

  • Courtney @ The Granola Chronicles April 6, 2011, 3:50 pm

    Hahaha, love your comment about not speaking to your child so he/she gets a British accent! 🙂

  • Georgie April 6, 2011, 3:57 pm

    Ugh – So sorry about the cavities. That is awful to hear. I’m guilty of avoiding the dentist for too-long time periods myself. My husband has a *fabulous* Romanian accent so I know how you feel about hoping your future little ones pick it up! I hope mine do too!

    Georgie
    http://www.Askgeorgie.com

  • claire April 6, 2011, 4:00 pm

    The “white” fillings are made of composite instead of silver. They are slightly less stable but are still very reliable. I think that’s what most people use now anyway. A lot of dental issues can be attributed to genetics…I floss daily with fluoride floss and brush 2x’s but still have a crown and multiple fillings. My dentist told me she can tell my dental hygeine is good (no gengivitis for me!) but my enamel is just not the best.

    All that said, it is really important to take care of your teeth and visit the dentist. Poor dental health (not necessarily #of cavities but otherwise) can be an indicator of problems elsewhere, too.

    Hope your fillings go well. I’d probably do one side at a time as it can take a day or so for your teeth to feel normal again depending on how deep the cavities are.

  • Tina @ Faith Fitness Fun April 6, 2011, 4:06 pm

    I’m picturing a little redheaded girl with a British accent. Too cute.

    And I got a white filling in a tooth 10 years ago. Had to have a crown put in the tooth that got it because it didn’t last. My new dentist said the white fillings don’t last near as long and aren’t as quality apparently.

  • DadHTP April 6, 2011, 4:09 pm

    no genetics problem in either family – maybe if you don’t drink tap water, you’re not getting enough fluoride?

  • Ellie@fitforthesoul April 6, 2011, 4:15 pm

    can’t wait to someday see that babyHTP with a British accent VLOG 😉

  • meg c April 6, 2011, 4:16 pm

    thinking about all the horrible things that can happen to your teeth make me WANT to go to the dentist as much as possible. my aunt had to have all her teeth removed and implants put in because they were so effed up. SCARY!!

  • Michelle (The Runner's Plate) April 6, 2011, 4:27 pm

    I hate going to the dentist and finding out I have a cavity (or multiple ones) after being very diligent about brushing and flossing!!

  • Michelle April 6, 2011, 4:47 pm

    I HATE the dentist with a fiery passion. I’m still working through the 3 root canals and 2 cavities with caps I need. Yuck.

    And little kids with any accents are awesome. I used to wait tables at the Hard Rock Cafe and I brought this little British boy a soda and he said “cheers!” I just about died from the cuteness.

    • caitie April 6, 2011, 10:57 pm

      hahahahah to the second part. i wish i couldve witnessed the cheers!

    • Caitlin April 7, 2011, 9:51 am

      hahahah cheers!

  • Kim April 6, 2011, 4:54 pm

    uh, i hate the dentist! i went to the dentist once and i had 11 cavities! i had never missed a 6 month check-up but apparently my previous dentist hadn’t been doing anything and i had 11 cavities. i ended up having to have 4 root canals as well because some of the cavities were so deep. one good thing that came out of all that is my new dentist and i have a really great relationship because we spent so much time together! 🙂 she’s awesome!

    i got the white fillings and haven’t had any problems. they aren’t as strong as metal though. i grind my teeth at night, so this was a problem, but i wear night guards now so i won’t break the fillings.

  • Maggie April 6, 2011, 4:58 pm

    Hey, this is off topic for this post, but I’ve been meaning to ask you how your vegetarianism and your husband’s veganism (am I right that he is vegan?) affect your husband’s practice of Chinese medicine?

    I understand some (many?) Chinese medicines are extracted/compounded from animal parts, and many supplements are capsuled in animal gelatin. In your husband’s Chinese medicine practice and the clinic’s sale of Chinese medicines, herbs and supplements, do you avoid products and practices that are derived from animals?

    I won’t even ask about cosmetics, clothing and furniture, because that’s a whole other topic, and I’m more interested in your thoughts on *ingesting* medicine that contains animals.

    I hope this question doesn’t come across as judge-y or confrontational, as it’s not intended that way AT ALL! You and HusbandHTP are awesome!

    • Caitlin April 7, 2011, 9:52 am

      A lot of Chinese herbs have animal products in them but the Husband makes the formulas vegetarian whenever he can, and it works out! Although Chinese medicine does promote eating red meat for a lot of disorders, you can always get around it!

      We also try to avoid supplements with gelatin in them but its not always possible unfortunately.

      • Maggie April 7, 2011, 6:22 pm

        Thank you for answering this! Also, re: kids and accents, my South African husband insists our 7-month-old Weimaraner puppy has a South African accent.

  • chelsea April 6, 2011, 4:59 pm

    LOL! You plan not to talk to her for 5 years so she gets her daddy’s accent!! Thats great. I always loved to go to the dentist because of the tasty flouride. I’m sorry about your cavaties….if it helps I have 2 fake teeth.

  • Lauren April 6, 2011, 5:00 pm

    I used to work for a dentist. I’d recommend two thing: get a Phillip’s Sonicare toothbrush, and go with the porcelain fillings! Amalgam fillings do not bond to the sides of the teeth well, and over time, tend to pull away from the tooth and allow decay to get underneath. The porcelain may not last as long per say as amalgam, but you’ll pay more to replace an amalgam plus treat the decay underneath, than to replace a porcelain! You might consider sealants too on back molars if you’re prone to cavities. I have all my back teeth sealed because i have deep grooves that make it difficult to prevent cavities. Sealants are a good way to help prevent them from forming in those deep grooves!

  • Ellen April 6, 2011, 5:03 pm

    So sorry about the cavities (been there!!) I also avoid drilling as it has always seemed to me to not be a solution, but rather a cover up for the problem. I did a lot of reasearch on alternative options. Did you know that your teeth can actually remineralise? Just because it is a cavity, doesn’t mean that it is totally dead. DEFINITELY don’t get mercury fillings, especially if you want to have babies. Cavities can be totally healed through nutrition/supplements. There’s info on it online, let me know if you would like links.

    • Caitlin April 7, 2011, 9:52 am

      Oh thanks for this!

  • suzie April 6, 2011, 5:05 pm

    My advise would be to be see another dentist. Dentist can sometimes be like used car salesmen.

  • Parita @ myinnershakti April 6, 2011, 5:05 pm

    I was just talking to someone at work about how most people dread the dentist, but I dread the optometrist because I have the most sensitive eyes EVER! I hate it! Speaking of eyes, where did you get your sunglasses from? Super cute!

    • Caitlin April 7, 2011, 9:53 am

      I think from Marshalls!

  • Christy Jen April 6, 2011, 5:16 pm

    Hi Caitlin
    I’m a dentist, and I can provide you with some info that might help with your decisions. if you want, email me at christy.jen@gmail.com.

    depending on where the cavity is, how big it is, etc will influence the longevity of the restoration and ultimately the tooth!

    • Caitlin April 7, 2011, 9:53 am

      All of my cavities have gone past the enamel – is there any hope or do I have to get them filled?

  • Shannon April 6, 2011, 5:38 pm

    That would be great if you had a little red headed girl 😉

  • JessicaEn April 6, 2011, 5:39 pm

    I have two teeth that are filled with the “white” filling and I love them. They look just like my regular teeth and I have never had any problems with them.

  • Emily (Comfortable Home Life) April 6, 2011, 5:56 pm

    Ughhh I haven’t been to the dentist in probably 3 years as well.. I’m nervous as to how many cavities I have. I can practically see them forming. I really need to bite the bullet and go!

    • Emily (Comfortable Home Life) April 6, 2011, 6:01 pm

      PS. I’m starting to get a little baby fever too. It doesn’t help that I work around kids all.day.long. Ha! I should probably focus on finding a husband first…

  • delia April 6, 2011, 6:02 pm

    Do other people in your family have issues with getting cavities? I wonder if it has to do with the structure of your mouth. I discovered a cavity by chance last year and had it filled with the amalgam. They say it lasts longer. Yesterday I went to get my teeth cleaned since I have dental insurance now and learned my crossbite was probably a contributing factor to that cavity. At least I got a goody bag of dental goods!

  • Lauren @ Lauren Runs April 6, 2011, 6:03 pm

    I just went to the dentist, and have 2 cavities.

    One interesting thing about metal versus white fillings is to ask about how long they last. When I was a kid (10-12) I had some cavities on my newly adult teeth that were filled with metal fillings. My current dentist is now finding that cavities are forming around those metal fillings or that the metal has moved & made space for openings for food. My dentist is now going to take out the metal fillings (12-14 years later) and replace them with white fillings that are supposed to better cap & protect the tooth.

    While I’m not happy to have to pay a 2nd time on the fillings for these teeth, I am happy because it will look less like metal mouth when I smile!

  • Jacalyn April 6, 2011, 6:06 pm

    Sorry if someone else commented this, but aren’t the white ones porcelain?

    In regards to having babies. For a very long time I didn’t want to give up my social life and couldn’t imagine having a kid. After all, you do sacrifice a lot for those little ones. One night, I was out with a group of people at a bar and thought, “yeah. I’m over this. Wow. I’m ready to have a baby.” I gave it a couple more months just to make sure the feeling was real. You really have to be 100% or you risk resenting the decision. You’ll know. Just like the moment you knew you loved the hubby. It will hit you.

    • Caitlin April 7, 2011, 9:54 am

      No the white ones are plastic 🙁

  • Elise April 6, 2011, 6:13 pm

    And now I’m terrified to go to the dentist. Its been three years for me. YIKESSSSSSS.

    And double yes to the british accent 🙂 Though then you’ll have to watch out when she’s a tween cuz she’ll make all the boys swooooon 😉

  • Meredith April 6, 2011, 6:29 pm

    Dentist appointments are no fun : (
    I had silver fillings, which had to be replaced once they aged and I chose to go with white fillings. Apparently white fillings are less stable than silver, and the entire filling on one tooth fell out! Supposedly white fillings are better for smaller fillings, and aren’t as stable to close large holes (in this case, onlays or inlays are preferred). Hope this helps evaluate your decision! Good luck!

  • Jen April 6, 2011, 7:03 pm

    Ugh, the dentist. Hubby and I haven’t been in 3 years this May…we were doing really well with going every 6 months for a few years there, after I had my wisdom teeth out in 2004, but we fell off the wagon. We really need to get back on that one. I’ve got 6 or 7 amalgam fillings in my teeth that will probably need replacing soon. They seem like a scam to me…they cost more (my average filling was $150 Cdn) and don’t last as long as the metal ones, but our dentist only does amalgam (no wonder, it pads his pockets faster!) Other than the pain in the butt of the price, I’ve had no issues with them. Good luck with it…go floss or something! 😉

  • Jen April 6, 2011, 7:10 pm

    Oops…I goofed on my dental terminology! I don’t have amalgam/metal fillings, I have the white ones! (whatever the heck they’re made of, lol)

  • sarah April 6, 2011, 7:21 pm

    I had two fillings last fall and I got the white filling. My dentist didn’t even ask me or give me a choice. I know they are more expensive. I would have chosen them anyway because I don’t like the idea of having metal in my mouth.
    Fillings are a huge bummer, but it has motivated me to floss better and brush more thoroughly!

  • Kate (What Kate is Cooking) April 6, 2011, 7:26 pm

    I don’t like the dentist 🙁 I got my first cavity last year- or should I say, I got my first THREE cavities last year!

  • kirsten April 6, 2011, 7:31 pm

    If it makes you feel any better the last time I went to the dentist I had 15 cavaties! Thousands of dollars later I am afraid to go back haha.

  • Jamie@everydaydolce April 6, 2011, 7:57 pm

    Aw I love that you want your litrle girl to have a British accent 🙂 That’s so cute…you’re babies are going to be so pretty!

  • Jenn April 6, 2011, 8:08 pm

    Ha! I love that title. I have had my share of cavities as well and I am so going to steal that title.

  • Wendy April 6, 2011, 8:30 pm

    Me and my two kiddos went to the dentist today, too! We all escaped cavity-free, but a new dentist has taken over since we last went a year ago. Cleanings, checkups and x-rays for two kids and one adults cost way, way, WAY more than I thought it would…ouch!

  • Charlie April 6, 2011, 8:37 pm

    My dentist doesn’t even offer metal fillings anymore! I’ve been getting white fillings since I have my “adult” tooth.

  • Julie @ Lettuce Choose Healthy April 6, 2011, 8:51 pm

    I’ve never had a cavity .. ** knock on wood **

  • Caitlin @ The Caitie Experiment April 6, 2011, 9:19 pm

    Yikes… in the words of Randy Jackson, “I feel ya, dawg!” After a horrifying encounter with a previous dentist (in which she hit a nerve with the anesthetic and I spent an entire root canal in a panic attack because my face and throat went numb and I couldn’t feel myself breathing and felt like I was drowning), I avoided the dentist for 3 years. When I FINALLY had to go to one last January for what I thought was a chipped tooth, I had 8 cavities, needed scaling and root planning, a crown on the tooth my last dentist botched the root canal on, and all 4 wisdom teeth pulled. I’ve had everything done but the crown and the wisdoms, and even with good dental insurance, I’ve paid a good chunk of change!

    I think my new dentist has done mostly composite fillings, since they’re visible. My older fillings are amalgam, though (my family has very weak teeth, if you couldn’t tell…I brush AND FLOSS twice a day with Rx toothpaste). One thing I have definitely had happen, despite most research stating that there’s no issue with amalgam, is that I have two fillings where the metal has leched into the gums, turning them grey and causing MAJOR sensitivity. My hygienist has problems cleaning those teeth because seriously, anytime she gets near them with her little pitchfork of doom, it’s like chewing tinfoil straight through my brain- I literally smacked her.in the face the first time she touched it, before we knew there was a problem. I’ve still gotten amalgam in the back for my recent fillings, but definitely something to keep in mind.

  • Kristen April 6, 2011, 9:23 pm

    I’m hoping that my sister has little red headed kids she married a red head and I’m hoping her kids will take after her (o such luck for me…). 🙂

  • Moll April 6, 2011, 9:41 pm

    Whoopsies! So much for flouridated water.

  • Kacy April 6, 2011, 10:10 pm

    I have terrible teeth so I usually have at least one cavity when I go in. Blah.

  • Kristen April 6, 2011, 10:29 pm

    I hate the dentist. Nothing good comes from there (haha just kidding)
    I also love british accents! I can actually do a OK impersonation of one.

  • Samantha April 6, 2011, 10:31 pm

    So sorry about your cavities! I actually waited four years to go to the dentist; I finally went last May, and I had four cavities. I was cursed with one for every year, I guess! I got the white fillings because my dentist didn’t offer the silver ones, and they seem to be fine. I had them all done at once, and they haven’t caused me any problems. (And I’ve been going to the dentist every six months since that experience!)

  • Alli April 6, 2011, 10:48 pm

    I had this similar situation at the dentist. He told me I had 6 cavities and I have only ever had one in my life! So i got a second opinion and it turned out I only had one.
    I would get a second opinion!!!

  • Alexa @ The Girl In Chucks April 6, 2011, 11:15 pm

    Now that I am almost done with wisdom teeth recovery, I went to the regular dentist for my actual check up today:

    4 cavities.

    I also need a cleaning, 4 x-rays and she did a ph balance test on my saliva and told me that I have a highly acidic mouth and will always be prone to cavities. Joy!

    You are right though, toothbrush is the best part ever! My cleaning will be in a week or two…I am looking forward to that ray of sunshine! 😉

  • Kate April 7, 2011, 12:09 am

    That sucks about the cavities..good luck. But you may want a second opinion. Also, good to get this taken care of now, before you get prego and continue to go because that is something that needs to be taken care of while you are.

    I’ve heard of this happening to people. My co-workers daughter was living in the burbs of a big city and went to the dentist and was told she had 4 cavities, she didn’t have ins so she didn’t get them done. She moves back to her hometown, goes to her dentist and is told she has none..

  • khushboo April 7, 2011, 12:23 am

    I love british accents- they instantly make you sound more sophisticated!

  • Brittany April 7, 2011, 8:14 am

    I wouldn’t worry about the composite fillings, its actually a really safe and sanitary biomaterial. Still kinda freaky–but its better than having a pig’s heart valve implanted… irrelevant, but shows perspective. Sorry, I’m a chemical engineer and a total nerd.
    Also, my dentist gives out toothbrushes that say “Dr. Hockman is watching”. Super Creepy.

  • Nicole of Raspberry Stethoscope April 7, 2011, 8:29 am

    When I was younger, we hardly ever went to the dentist due to $$, so by the time I graduated college and got insurance (yay!!), i had…8 cavities! Luckily, i have pretty sweet insurance and was able to get the white fillings, which are so much better than the metal ones. you can’t see them at all. And i only had to pay out of pocket maybe $80 when all was said and done. <3 insurance

  • Tina April 7, 2011, 9:00 am

    I love my white fillings. I had two cavities for the first time in my life (after skipping out on dentist visits for 5 years). My fillings were sensitive the first month or so, but now I’m totally back to normal. No metal and my teeth still look pretty!

    Also, love what you wrote earlier about wanting a ginger girl. I’m a redhead as are all of my siblings but my partner is not. While most parents are excited to find out if their baby is a boy or a girl, we just want to know if we get another ginger in the family. *fingers crossed!*

  • Amber K April 7, 2011, 10:46 am

    I have cavities every time I go to the dentist. My dad does too, which is why he goes every four months. It helps. I wish I could afford to do that! My dentist switched over to the white fillings, he won’t even do the metal ones anymore. And I would totally want my baby to have a British accent too 😉

  • Katherine: Unemployed April 7, 2011, 1:21 pm

    I have never had a cavity! I’m so scared what would happen if I ever did have one!

  • Jolene (www.everydayfoodie.ca) April 7, 2011, 7:42 pm

    Get the white fillings FOR SURE. My mom got tested in her 20s to see if her metal fillings were leaking mercury and they were.

    She has MS now. I have no idea if there is a connection, but I would never take any chances.

  • Michelle April 7, 2011, 8:10 pm

    Hi there!!
    I’m in dental school and we learn a TON about whether to go white (“composite) or silver (“Amalgam”). This is really personal preference because there are a ton of pros and cons to both.

    For front teeth that ppl see when you smile – definitely go with the “white”. They are perfectly safe and it’s not just plastic material. A TON of research has been done on it and the can match the color to your remaining teeth perfectly.

    However, white filling are super technique sensitive so make sure your dentist is good! They don’t bear weight as well as silver fillings and have been shown to have higher “failures” – which means you’ll just have to replace them more frequently (a few years vs 10+ years) than silver ones. They are also more prone to cavitation around ’em due to leakage issues, so keep a close tab on them!

    As for silver, there is mercury in them as well as lots of other metals…however, they are absolutely safe and last a REALLY freakin’ long time!!! They also save you a lot more money. They are WAY less pretty though…so that’s definitely another consideration.

    Either way, good luck with your decision! Either one is good, it really jsut ends up being what you can afford, what is more important to you at this time! 🙂

    • Caitlin April 7, 2011, 9:25 pm

      Thank you for this awesome comment!

  • Michelle April 7, 2011, 11:22 pm

    P.s. Look into MI Paste. It has been shown to remineralize teeth (I.e. halt the decay, it’s it’s not too bad yet!) so if you have small cavities, MI paste is something you can order striaght off amazon that I am actually using myself!

    The only thing i might mention is that there is milk-derivative products in it…as long as you’re not lactose intolerant, MI paste is a great option to take a look at! 🙂

  • suzy pepper April 8, 2011, 10:40 am

    I so agree about the accent thing. I sometimes consider moving to France before having kids so that my kids will learn French, since it’s so easy for babies to learn things. BABIES ARE MAGICAL.

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