I set a world record, maybe... 23 years between visits!

[Sosai X]

Last time I went to the dentist, was in high school, in February 1993. Next time I went was May 2016. More than 23 years. Other than some severe plaque build-up, I had no other issues. Dentist used a painless micro-sonic water jet thing to clean my teeth. Less than half an hour in the chair. I went again last Wednesday for a six month check up. No cavities, normal clean/polish. For those 23 years, I would actually have a panic attack at even thinking of the dentist. I couldn't even look at my mouth in the mirror. Going was the best thing I ever did, the chains binding me are gone, the devil that haunted me has gone back to the pit whence he came. I will, however, never forget what my dentist said after my cleaning: "23 years, and not a single cavity. You shouldn't have a tooth left in your head."

 

[lauralou32]

Congratulations! You did it! So happy that you had minimal decay to your teeth! But I have you beat! It was 24 yrs before I saw a dentist and I wasn't so lucky I had to have extractions and a lower partial placed and in January more to come! Stupid fear kept me from going but now I feel like you, broke thru the fear and shame and now I'm free to smile!! It feels great! So congrats to you conquering your fear and being such an inspiration to others on this site!!

 

[Thephilsblogbar]

Well done both of you going to the dentist. Even though I go regularly to the dentist for checkups and any treatment needed. I wish I could not be as fearful as the dentist

 

[Petefear]

Last time I went to the dentist, was in high school, in February 1993. Next time I went was May 2016. More than 23 years. Other than some severe plaque build-up, I had no other issues. Dentist used a painless micro-sonic water jet thing to clean my teeth. Less than half an hour in the chair. I went again last Wednesday for a six month check up. No cavities, normal clean/polish. For those 23 years, I would actually have a panic attack at even thinking of the dentist. I couldn't even look at my mouth in the mirror. Going was the best thing I ever did, the chains binding me are gone, the devil that haunted me has gone back to the pit whence he came. I will, however, never forget what my dentist said after my cleaning: "23 years, and not a single cavity. You shouldn't have a tooth left in your head."

It will be 30 years since my last visit and I am trying to work up the courage this week after reading about the modern treatments since my last bad memories of visits. And the fact that I am now in pain and have little choice. I have not smiled in 15 years.

 

[Courtenay]

You should go often the fear is the worst part. I just started work after not going for about 10 years, I did go twice about 5 years ago for pain relief but they weren't nice so I never kept up. Have just found a new dentist for myself who is lovely and in a few more appointments I'll be done all the corrections!