DeNial

The tooth’s root is split
removal is imminent

Doc it doesn’t hurt
or smell anymore

best it’s been in a year
scheduled extraction today

I cannot face another
molar departing me

appointment canceled
afraid of domino effect

one down one next to it
is next until none are left

too old to rationalize expense
and more pain for an implant

reschedule two weeks from now
hope I’ll be able to accept the risks & loss

by then.