Trying to Muster up the Courage

[Tee_bird]

First off, I'm incredibly thankful I found this site. I can't believe there are so many people specifically scared of the same thing I am. Definitely makes me feel like I can do it already.

Anyways, the reason I'm posting here is because I've been absolutely terrified of dentists (and doctors for that matter) since I was really young. I even get nervous before just getting a cleaning.

I know the biggest factor in all of this is fear of pain. I've always been pretty pain intolerant, especially if it's something I can't stop. (The pain caused by hot foods is the exception, hehe) I've been wanting to go to the dentist for a while now, since it's been at least four years since my last visit when I got some fillings (which admittedly wasn't bad aside from the extremely painful shots in my mouth) I have a wisdom tooth that's halfway out, I need braces (I'm 22... which is embarrassing) since my teeth are crooked and I have two "fang like" teeth growing above the others on gums. Not to mention the cavaties. I'm a mess!

Anyone have encouraging words? Maybe a dentist recommendation in the central Missouri area?

Thanks for reading!

PS: I've been shaking just reading through this site. Mostly because I'm imagining going to the dentist.

 

[Tee_bird]

And here is an image of what we're dealing with here. Don't mind my terrible face, it was pretty late and my make up made it appear I have a black eye.

Yes, I occasionally try to smile like I have good teeth because it feels better (but some times I can't stand it). I can't wait until I can smile and have GOOD TEETH!

 

[brit]

Fear of pain, well share that one but there doesn't have to be any with modern dental techniques.

Extremely painful shots? Better try a different dentist this time then, they do not have to be painful at all but painfree shots can't be done in a rush:

Painful Injections and Needle Phobia

Are you terrified of dental injections? Find out why shots may be painful, how to make them comfortable, and what to do if you have needle phobia.

www.dentalfearcentral.org

It's true it's all in the technique....with a conventional syringe.

so why not ask friends if their dentist does comfortable shots and go from there?

Best wishes

 

[Tee_bird]

Thanks, brit!

My last dentist wasn't so great. Not only did he not wait enough for the topical anesthetic to set in, he quickly injected my mouth. Not to mention I have a very small mouth, and he had the biggest fingers I've ever seen. NOT DENTIST FINGERS!