Yeh you are not alone in dental issues for sure. Glad the man is a oral surgeon, just make sure he "talks" to you. Some of their chair side manners aren't all that good with some of them.
I too let my teeth go for over 10 years. I had 9 sugeries in that time, and actually couldn't figure out a time inbetween where I had to do dental work, much less the money it costs. I owe alot to a very compassionate doctor now, but my teeth are in good shape. Had three removed, but no infection. It was my gums, and surgery was out due to cost. We all do what we can Terry. Hope your issues are resolved soon, and that the infection goes away once and for all. There are guards you can purchase even at Walgreens to prevent clenching of teeth or grinding. take care. ginnie