There is something a bit peculiar about going to the dentist, don't you think, something a bit odd about going to a doctor twice a year who takes shiny, sharp metal things into your mouth, to scrape and things that are essentially exposed bone? All the while poking with those same sharp metal objects at your gums, those pieces of soft tissue that cover parts of those boney old teeth?

Ah, nothing like a mouthful of blood to start your morning.

Two of my teenage fillings are leaking and have to go. Am being fitted for mouthguard (thanks, topomax, love that side effect).