I went to the dentist almost two weeks ago. I filled out the forms necessary in the waiting room. You know forms..the dreaded 'Are you under current medical care and any medications?' boxes. I reluctantly checked off the appropriate boxes and listed the current medications I am on for my bipolar disorder. Of course, I didn't write ANYTHING about my diagnosis. But there was the check off for 'Psychiatric Care'...and stupid me, I check it off and listed my doctor's name in the blank next to it.

Well, it was my turn to go to the hygienist. I sat down. Now, I'm facing the tv screen away from the lady. (The tvs are just one reason why dental care is so darn expensive...I dont want to be entertained, just do my damn teeth).

Anyway, I heard a giggle. She came over to me and said, 'So you're on what medication?'. I quietly told her the medication I was on. I didnt want to blurt it out for the whole world to hear. 'Ok....', she said. Then, she called for another hygienist. I turned my head around and saw them looking at my screen and file. He started to laugh. I know I don't have the best set of teeth. But I know they see all kinds of teeth everyday. So what were they laughing at??

The hygienist came back to me and smiled...she said she had to leave because they were swamped. I sat there for about 15 minutes. Another hygienist came by. She didn't laugh or giggle...she got to work on my teeth.

About an hour later....the dentist himself came in. He said hi..and without any introductions or anything else, he said...'so you're on seroquel, topamax, and wellbutrin?'....He jumped right into it. I mean...it felt VERY VERY awkward...Between the laughing and giggling of the hygienists and the VERY direct questioning of the dentist about the medication, I felt like a freakshow.

Am I being overly sensitive with this? Honestly, this was the first time I have every encountered this since my diagnosis back in March. I go back in about 4 months. But truthfully I really don't feel comfortably going back.

Thank you...

Joe