Soon I'll have my insurance back and can go to the dentist which is good for them because a lot of my teeth need worked on where I haven't been for such a long time, but for me I'm terrified.........I always hate the grinding noises and the nasty tooth paste, errrrr and them telling me I need to brush better....hate that.....errrrrr scared..........lol

[ECHOES]

Hey Dustin, Good for you for going, for taking care of you.
You know, if we brushed better they wouldn't have any business. Besides, there are other reasons we get cavities.. diet, genetics.

It is a place where a person can feel very vulnerable. That can be scary, but no not evel at all. They are there to help and I admire that. No way would I choose to put my fingers in people's mouths for my career!

The last time I went to the dentist, they had flat screen TV's at each chair!

Maybe recall past experiences where the staff and dentist greeted you warmly and sincerely. Using relaxation techniques can help you arrive there feeling calm so maybe that is something you might want to look into.

You are very fortunate to have dental insurance!

[gimmeice]

((((((((((( Dustin )))))))))))))

I have always been afraid of dentists for a lot of the same reasons that you are, unfortunately I let that fear get in my way of going to dentists. When I finally went it was because all my teeth were bad and I was in a lot of pain now I have no teeth the only option I had at that point was to get them pulled. I am glad that you will be going soon. The last dentist I saw was very nice and didn't scare me as much so maybe you could do some dentist shopping to find the right one for you.

[splitimage]

Good for you for going, and it doesn't have to be evil and scary. Dentistry has changed a lot. I really neglected my teeth when I was drinking and didn't go to a dentist for 10 years. When I went I was terrified, both of what I'd have to have done and what they'd say. The staff was all really nice, and they have big flat screen TV's over all the chairs.

I wound up needing 14 fillings and it took 2 hrs of cleaning to get the tartar off, but none of it hurt, although my gums were sensitive for a few days afterwards.

I can't say I look forward to going to the dentist now, but at least I don't dread it.

--splitimage

[Taonuviel]

yeah, dentists aren't so bad. last time i went mine was really nice. he had a really cool personality, too, i think it's because he stutters and has had to deal with that in this *lovely* tough world of ours.

it's really great you have insurance. wish i could get some! you'll be glad if you keep up on your teeth... sucks to have to have them worked on from neglect or whatever.

My dentists are mean, my aunt worked there too which made it worse.....no offense to dentists but I dunno I just don't like going their espcially when I am depressed.......errr

[xivella]

((((((Moonkin)))))) I can definitely relate. I'm absolutely terrified of the dentist, and everything associated. Maybe you could bring an Ipod or something because then if you can't hear the noises, you won't be so anxious? I haven't been able to try that myself, but I've heard that it works. Another thing - maybe you could find a dentist that understands that you are afraid and is nice about it? I have broken down in tears in front of my dentist from fear and he understands. He's been very helpful and tolerant. Good luck.

[ECHOES]

Dustin, go to a different dentist. As you can see from reading here, there are many wonderful dentists out there who provide gentle care.

Originally Posted by xivella

((((((Moonkin)))))) I can definitely relate. I'm absolutely terrified of the dentist, and everything associated. Maybe you could bring an Ipod or something because then if you can't hear the noises, you won't be so anxious? I haven't been able to try that myself, but I've heard that it works. Another thing - maybe you could find a dentist that understands that you are afraid and is nice about it? I have broken down in tears in front of my dentist from fear and he understands. He's been very helpful and tolerant. Good luck.

Good Ideas!!!

Originally Posted by ECHOES

Dustin, go to a different dentist. As you can see from reading here, there are many wonderful dentists out there who provide gentle care.

I may go to the one my parents go to......but I unforunatly have to go where my insurance allows me to go (my dad isn't getting good insurance bcause of low income)

[cuwire2]

Originally Posted by gimmeice

((((((((((( Dustin )))))))))))))

I have always been afraid of dentists for a lot of the same reasons that you are, unfortunately I let that fear get in my way of going to dentists. When I finally went it was because all my teeth were bad and I was in a lot of pain now I have no teeth the only option I had at that point was to get them pulled. I am glad that you will be going soon. The last dentist I saw was very nice and didn't scare me as much so maybe you could do some dentist shopping to find the right one for you.

I let fear and laziness keep me out of the dentist office for years too. This is something I need to do in 2009 go get my teeth pulled because I did not take care of my teeth and gums these last 58 years. Now I am going to have to pay tens of thousands to get implants. What scares me is the bill. Finding a good dentist or mechanic for that matter is not easy. If anyone has any tips I would appreciate hearing them. I guess my mind is shot and my mouth is shot. Do you suspose its from shooting off my mouth?