Going to the Dentist

I have to go to the dentist Wednesday morning for my six-month cleaning and five-year x-rays. Thanks to a massive amount of dental work done in a very short period of time (not recommended)a few years ago, I developed Temperomandibular (sp?) Joint Disorder, or TMJD. What this means is that if I have to have any dental work done, even a cleaning, my jaw aches for days afterward. If I have to have a cavity filled, my jaw aches for months. I have a mouthpiece to wear which helps immensely with the pain, but I still dread going to the dentist. Chronic pain teaches you things. It taught me that I am a whiny, depressed mess when faced with pain that doesn't go away.