Okay, it’s confession time. I used to be one of those people who was afraid to go to the dentist. I know it sounds silly, but just the thought of having someone staring down my mouth was mortifying. I would gladly go through natural childbirth with no medication, speak in front of a crowd of 500 plus people, or be the first one on the dance floor while everyone else is watching— before I would willingly choose to go to the dentist. And by the way, I’ve actually done all of these things, so I’m not making this stuff up. Going to the dentist used to be one of my most dreaded, stressful experiences.
However, something changed me down the road that helped me conquer the fear and begin to relax. Maybe it was because I had kids and realized I had to be a good example, no matter how apprehensive I was. Or maybe it was because I found a really good dentist. Maybe it was a little bit of both. But I have to say, I’m glad that my fear has been conquered. There’s nothing worse than letting your anxiety control you, and take it from me, it’s not worth it. I was fortunate to not have any major dental problems arise from my phase of avoiding the dentist office like the plague, but now that I get my regular cleanings and have a great doctor to trust, I’m stress-free— and glad of it.
Celeste Jo Walls, Editor