Perna, I understand what you're saying, but I firmly believe that if I'd taken care of my teeth, I'd have far fewer problems. A high sugar diet sure didn't help. And it's a parent's job to make sure their children take care of their teeth. Otherwise, parents are neglectful.

Ruby, you don't have to feel so alone now. I'm calling my dentist (who I haven't seen in years) today to make an appointment, because I'm having a problem with a tooth. I called my dentist yesterday, just to ask about dental insurance (I can't afford it, but info couldn't hurt), and found out they have payment plans so you can pay a bit at a time, and I think she said you have a year or maybe two to pay the bill off in full. Well, later, my tooth started hurting, so I asked my boyfriend if I could apply for that payment plan and get an appointment (possibly today, if they're open and will take me), and he said ok. I am nervous about going, but I will be glad to have the tooth fixed. I want to chew gum again, LOL!

That said, I have lots of bad teeth, so I worry about all of them.

As for this tooth that's bothering me, I won't be the least bit surprised to hear I need a root canal. I got angry with my mom yesterday when I mentioned I was going to see the dentist, although I didn't express my anger that much. She asked if I was going to have it pulled. Seems an innocent-enough question, but my parents have always seemed to think it was better for me to get my teeth pulled than get them fixed, plus my mom has felt I should just get false teeth, because it's easier. This upsets me so much, you just don't know. I know the odds are slim, especially at my age, but I want to be an actress, and while you can be an actress with false teeth, the fact is, you have better chances at roles if you have really good teeth (and looks). I have NEVER been encouraged by her or my dad (or anyone in my real life, for that matter) to pursue acting, let alone anything else or creative I wanted to do. So, I just feel like I've never had support. Her telling me to get my teeth pulled is like telling me to just throw them away. My dad had false teeth, and my mom does, too, so I guess it's no big deal to them.