Aww, Cody. I feel the same way! For me, just getting past the embarrassment of them seeing my mouth was the hardest. But it was weird. They weren’t like “OH GOD, LOOK AT THE HORROR!” They were like, “Okay, which tooth. Ah, I see. Okay, we’re going to fill it for you, and that should be good.” WHAT?! Where’s my lecture? Why are you not shaming me for being a horrible person right now? I’m a horrible person, okay I said it. Wait? You understand? You’re telling me everyone starts somewhere. You’re saying thank you for coming? You are treating me like I’m a customer.
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Holy crap, I AM a customer.
That has completely changed my perspective. That was not the case last time I went. Like you, I need a bit more work (done with one filling, exam, and cleaning) but I have three small appointments left. Only 3 hours or less left in the chair, and I am basically caught up after 16 years! Somehow, my mouth is not completely a lost cause! I would like to get braces... I’m 31, so I’m a little hesitant, but I feel like this is a new me, and if I can go to a dentist after 16 years, I can be confident enough for braces! It is just such a great feeling. I’m so glad you’re doing well, and a root canal on your first visit is nothing less than impressive. Keep it up, Cody. We’ll get through this together!