I had implant surgery this morning. It does hurt a bit, and I’m a bit dizzy. I think nothing unusual about that, so I’m back at work until a long-awaited nap and more rest.

I’m not good at resting in the daytime, but the procedure was successful.

As usual, Dr. Killing did a great job; he planted the first post (above), and the final post and crown will come in late Spring. He’s an excellent doctor – skilled and kind and just about the only male doctor I have now.

Of course, I had to photograph the thing. I was excited to see what an implant looks like close up once it’s drilled in. I could only imagine it before. It looks strange sticking out there at the top of my mouth.

It didn’t hurt until I got home, but some Tylenol has settled things down. I got some photos I liked this morning before I left. I’ll put them up after this.

Dr. Killing. He is a pleasure to work with.

This is a big deal for me. I was first acquainted with dentistry after visiting my grandmother in her mom-and-pot grocery and penny candy store once or twice a week for several years. She insisted I eat some penny candy every time I visited, or she would be offended.

I saw my first dentist, Dr. Brown, when I was four.

We became close after that, and I made it into my 70s with all of my teeth, but I lost two because of an infection and gum troubles. With this implant, I’ll have all my teeth back, which will be a joy.

I’m expected to keep them for the rest of my life. I was fascinated by the implant X-ray; Dr. Killing (the nicest male doctor I’ve encountered yet) said it looked great and the implant process was a perfect success.

The dental light shining on my face was especially beautiful. It was almost hypnotic.

This post will come out when I see him again, and another will replace it. I’ve learned to pay attention to the office and nursing staff. If they are cheerful and empathetic, then I know they have an excellent doctor to work for. The crew at Northeast Surgical is great, they reflect their doctor.

This implanted post will be the foundation for the permanent crown.

I’m working hard to keep up with my health, trying to be proactive and optimistic at the same time. My mouth, gum, and remaining teeth are another excellent decision.

And it’s nice to be home. I won’t write as much as usual today, but I will write. And I will sleep.