Hello everyone.
I have a routine dental appointment at my local dental practice in Felixstowe, Suffolk, on the afternoon of Thursday 9th January. I find dental appointments really scary and nerve-wracking at times because I always fear that the dentist might spot one tiny thing wrong with one of my teeth, which might require specialist cleaning or even a filling by the hygienist.
Fortunately, my dental record has been fine. As of January 2014, I am 32 years old, and have only had two fillings in that time, which isn't too bad. In recent years, my dental record has been fine. I have been brushing my teeth thoroughly, every morning and every evening. I have also been using the very best available toothbrush for brushing between teeth, although I use dental floss for the really tight gum areas that some toothbrushes cannot access.
I have found my dental practice rather uncomfortable. The main entrance isn't exactly wide, or even particularly wheelchair friendly. Although there are sufficient seats in the reception area, I find waiting ages for my dentist's availability agonising. I just want my appointment over and done with, so I can go home immediately. When he or she is available, I have to go up some really narrow stairs, which I find difficult to climb or descend due to my size 12 feet (I am 6 feet 5 inches tall as well), meaning I end up going up or down in a sideways movement.
If my dentist says my teeth require attention, I groan in frustration. Even if nothing is wrong, I should be happy, but I still feel sad in a way. As I am on benefits, my dental appointment won't cost me anything. My mum has had her teeth cleaned out at the same dental practice today (Monday 6th January), and I believe that that cost her £50. Maybe that's just me recovering from a nervous, stressful experience, but there you go.
What are your experiences of dental appointments?
