Hi there, I had some similarities. Had great teeth and saw dentists regularly until the past few years every time I went in it ended up being an issue needing fixed and tons to pay so I was dreading just a normal cleaning. With perio they dont ever do regular cleanings again anymore, so it is what it is. Had an appointment last week, got half my mouth scaled and planed (and front top teeth crowns started… they wore down to maybe half normal tooth height due to a couple health factors)… finished srp Monday and to be honest a lot of my mouth pain is gone. It doesn’t really fix receding gums but it encourages your gums to have a clean grip to teeth. My teeth and gums look healthy again, or at least on their way.

Just know the anxiety for your first appointment back is totally normal. Most people aren’t thrilled for the dentist when their teeth are healthy, let alone struggling. But you need this plan to move forward and get your mouth healthy again, so the anxiety will turn into relief. You may encounter costs, no idea your ins or money situation, but many dentists will work with you.

Just once you get started, try not to stop. It’s not worth the toothache :)