Your tongue probes the sensitive space left on your gums - it feels soft, kind of mushy, tender - and you know your smile will never look the same again.
There it is, in the palm of your hand. You can see the hole that caused the trouble.
Such a small thing to cause so much pain. But it's gone now, and you'll still be able to pay your bills.
You take a couple of ibuprofen tablets and go to pick your kids up from school, coming up with a funny story to tell them, so they don't find out the depressing truth - Mummy couldn't afford to visit the dentist.
This is a tale that is playing itself out in many variations at homes across the country.
It's become such an issue; some health bosses are now backing free dental care.
Waitematā District Health Board wants a "comprehensive dental service for all New Zealanders" amid growing concern among health workers for people who live in chronic pain as a result of being unable to afford to pay a dentist, with some resorting to gruesome "DIY dentistry", the Herald reported on Monday.
About one in three New Zealanders have untreated tooth decay, the last comprehensive oral health survey in 2009 found. Almost half of adults had avoided routine dental treatment in the previous year, because of cost.
The Government says it won't be considering any significant reform this side of the 2020 election.
But there is a glimmer of hope - Health Minister David Clark says he has ambitions to make dental care more affordable and accessible.
It's clear something needs to be done, and soon. Our country recognises healthcare as a right for all people - and that should include our teeth.
