We're thinking of a return to Albania!

I finally got through to the dental school that was advertising free treatments, but they weren't interested in my problem. They only deal with minor fillings and such, which seemed odd to me considering they said the students are in their final year of school.

Anyhow, I ended up calling the closest dentist to where we are staying, explained the situation, and was given a 2:00pm appointment.

Arrived a few minutes before and had to fill out a typical medical form, then was taken in to the chair right at 2:00pm. 

Back in 2021, I had an anchor tooth for a bridge repaired in Albania. That has held up perfectly since it was done 4 years ago, but it is that anchor tooth that has become infected. She prescribed antibiotics which should work over the next two to three days, but ultimately the infection will likely return if the tooth is not removed.

The problem is that the tooth is on its last legs. And although the infection is likely to return, it's impossible to tell if that might happen in two weeks or in two months, or longer. 

Out for a walk with Loki.

So, this presents a bit of a conundrum. If the tooth is removed, I will need to have a new bridge installed with the next anchor tooth, which she said is a very strong tooth. But the entire procedure from start to finish will be time consuming and would be expensive to have done here... or in any other "western" country. 

So... we have an idea. We have three weeks in July where we have not yet made any firm plans. We're thinking we will return to Albania!

Our dentist is in Berat, and we love that area and could easily spend three weeks in Berat. The dental procedure will be at least 75% less costly there, which would easily pay for the flight to Tirana and back to London in time for our cruise. 

Ruth and a perfect fir tree.

So, I've contacted both the dentist and our car rental guy to make sure that we can get a car. No confirmation of either yet. And I've had a quick look at accommodation. Things are more expensive than the last time we were there, and there's not a ton of choice since July is busy season in Albania. But there certainly are options, so that part is fine.

Anyhow, the dentist visit here in Scotland cost £55 ($101 CAD, $75 USD) and that included the full week supply of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Not bad, all things considered!

Fortunately, there's not a lot of pain. It's just a bit uncomfortable and annoying because the roof of my mouth at that tooth is a bit swollen.

Loki and Ruth at the Maryculter Community Woods.

Notice the garden growing on the roof!

We woke up to bright sunshine first thing this morning, which was a pleasant surprise. But now it's raining! Not supposed to last though.

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Decent deal on a 10' x 10' Popup Shade Canopy. Big choice of colors.

And in Canada...

Great deal on this HP Printer with 3 month ink supply.