Root Canal Fun Today

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It is with dread  and loathing that I go to the dentist today for a Root Canal.  There is not much to say about it, except I will be pre-medicated (Hello Valium) and there will be Nitrous involved.  Needless to say, I am a BIG Chicken when it comes to Dental work of any kind.  I don't hate my dentist, in fact he is a kind and gentle dentist with a bit of dry humor to boot. 

My dental phobia began when I was very young, probably around 5 years old.  My mom would take me to the dentist for a cleaning every 6 months.  But, when the dentist or the hygienist was cleaning my teeth, she (or someone else) would cover my eyes with their hands.  I don't know why they did this, but it definitely freaked me out. I was passive about it at the time, ( Just 5 years old) and don't recall saying anything about it. But as I grew older, going to the dentist was always a challenge. 


I sometimes think my experience with braces at age 10 was another factor.  Before I could get my braces on, I had to have four teeth pulled.  By this time, we had moved and had a different dentist.  He did not cover my eyes, during this procedure, but the yanking and tugging and blood DID leave a lasting impression.  

The orthodontist also had some tricks up his sleeve too.   Back in the early 70's when I had my braces put on,they were not attached with glue or whatever it is they use today.  Each brace or bracket was put on with a small hammer like tool.  It is hard to explain, but needless to say it was painful, if not barbaric.  Oh... and before the braces went on, there was the much anticipated fun of the "Spacers"!!  Small rubber things that they would slide ( or jam) between your teeth to make room for the braces to go on. How could I forget those lovely things? !   My mouth was sore for the whole weekend. 

After two years and 19 days of braces, I had my braces removed.  Four months later, I was have my four wisdom teeth cut out.  This was done to prevent my newly straightened teeth going crooked again.  Oh yeah, to be young, in junior high school and have braces......   The fun never ended.


I do appreciate the fact that my parents did take me to the dentist and the orthodontist.  My teeth are straight, and my smile is pretty.  But getting to that point was painful and traumatic.

What are your experiences at the dentist?  Do you dread it, or is it easy for you?

"If she was a horse....."

"If she was a horse we would have to shoot her"!!! Yep, this is what a dentist once told my husband!! Is there any wonder that I have dental anxiety?!!! I never went back to see that dentist.

In just a few minutes I will be making my way to the new Dentist's office. Due to insurance changes we have to change dentists. This is not a big deal to me. What is a big deal is JUST having to do to the dentist! It is an experience that will cause me to a HUGE amount of anxiety!!

I have had a lot of dental/orthodontic/surgery to my mouth and teeth. It began at age 10 with the removal of 4 teeth and the addition of braces for two years and ten days. Yes, I know exactly how long I wore my braces. Since then I have had fillings, root canals, deep scaling...... and so on.

In the past I have not been diligent in going regularly to the dentist. ( My fault). I am making an effort to change that. My husband has already had his teeth cleaned by the new dentist. He says that he is a nice guy and that I should like him. I always send hubby first to check things out!

Here we go, I am off to see the dentist........... (fingers crossed) I really need to pre medicate for the anxiety....