I’m about to have a good old rant because today I don’t feel like being a big girl. I don’t want to adult! As I mentioned a few days ago, I had both my hips replaced last year. Blah, blah, blah. I’m finally starting to feel normal again, the pain is almost all gone, etc etc.
And then I needed to go to the dentist! Yes, yes! I should go for regular check-ups, but I don’t. Why don’t I?
Because I AM TERRIFIED OF THE DENTIST!
Two weeks ago I had a bit of toothache, and because of the implants in my hips I know that I can’t afford to have any serious infections, so I quickly went to see what was wrong without putting too much thought into it. Think, ripping off a bandaid.
I got told that I needed to have quite a lot of work done – which I knew but had been putting off for years! No pain, no need to go, right?!
Anyway, I booked the appointment for today. Last week I got a call from the dentist’s receptionist to come get an antibiotic script in preparation for the treatment. What, why? BECAUSE OF THE HIPS! Apparently, for the rest of my life, every time I have to go for dental treatment, I will have to take these hectic antibiotics to avoid infection!
Then three days ago, my eldest started coughing, really badly. Then yesterday morning I woke up and I knew I was getting it too. Last night I even slept in the lounge because my coughing was so bad I couldn’t settle, and that’s really not fair on my husband. Besides the coughing I could feel myself starting to tense up and stress about the dental appointment.
And as a friend of mine told me today – suck it up, be a big girl, and go!
By the time I got there, I was shaking like a leaf.
Taking yourself to the dentist as an adult must be the equivalent of a child confessing to drawing on the wall with a permanent marker to their dad!
Anyway, I spent an hour and a half in the chair. My whole body was tense, my fingers digging into my own chest! I didn’t actually experience much pain, so I guess it wasn’t too bad, but I still heard the drilling and grinding, felt the water spraying, the squeaking, and at one point, I honestly thought he was just trying to pull my tooth out with his hand! Let’s not even talk about the fact that you know you’re drooling, but you can’t feel it!!! It’s all so undignified!
He did four fillings (FOUR) and they honestly do look and feel so much better. Halfway through though, he suggested he postpone the next patient so he can do ALL the work there and then, to which I politely suggested that next week would be better for me! Yes, yes, I know I’m a chicken!
I’m so glad I did, though, because now the numbness is finally wearing off it honestly feels like I had the hulk’s hands in my mouth. My jaw is aching, and I’m actually quite sore, which in my case translates into, I’m quite irritated and p*ssed off, don’t even look at me!
At the end of the dentist appointment, I can honestly say the fear of going was worse than the experience. But, just because I’m a 35-year-old mother who gave birth naturally twice, and had both hips replaced, doesn’t mean I can forget the psychological scars and memories of pain caused by dentists in my youth. No one can take that away from me!
And let me tell you what the WORST part of what today is going to be!! Because of the hectic antibiotics, I can’t even cheer myself up with a glass of wine. I can’t even reward myself for actually going to the dentist with a nice ice cold glass of Chardonnay.
Here are 8 reasons to visit the dentist as an adult:
- Prevent dental problems from happening. Regular checkups and cleanings can help catch problems early, so they can be fixed before they get worse and more expensive.
- Get your health checked. Your dentist can check for signs of other health problems, like diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis. Your local dentists, like the local dentist in Warrington, can also offer helpful information about your general health.
- Keep your mouth healthy and happy. Good oral hygiene, healthy teeth and gums can help you avoid infections, eat better, and feel more confident.
- Avoid pain and discomfort. Dental problems can cause pain, which can make it hard to eat and sleep.
- Get a brighter smile. Regular dental care can whiten your teeth, remove stains, and fix minor cosmetic problems.
- Save money in the long run. Catching problems early can save you from having to pay for more expensive treatments later.
- See your dentist if you have any of these symptoms: Tooth pain, gum pain, bleeding gums, bad breath, loose teeth, sore mouth, difficulty chewing, or changes in your bite.
- Don’t wait until it’s too late. Make an appointment to see your dentist today!
Amen sister! I have an appointment November 14th and haven’t gone since having both my kids the past two years…Pretty worried I have a million cavities waiting to be drilled out and filled. Nooooooooo!
It’s horrible. Good luck! ?
Been there, done that, left the crush marks on the chair where I **GRIPPED** the arm rests so tight my hands went white.
Being an adult sucks at times. B-)
Been there. So sorry you are having a bad time of it. Hope u feel better soon. You will just have to cut loose and have double the fun to make up for things after u heal up from ur appointment next week.
I’m sorry it was a terrible day at the dentist, but I have to say, your post does put a nice humorous light on it. It made me laugh when I got to the Chardonnay part… hope you can have that glass tomorrow! ?