I’ve always gone to the dentist twice a year. I had a fantastic dentist growing up who was super gentle and never made me nervous. I’ve graduated and started my first “career” job, but it’s quite a bit away from my hometown. My college was as well, so we always scheduled my appointments during my holiday and summer breaks. I figured it was time for me to get my own dentist in my new hometown, though. It was the first time in my life I understood why people complain about dentists. He was horrible. He was rough both in how he physically handled my mouth and teeth and in how he talked to me when I mentioned he was being a little rough. I actually left in pain, which has never happened to me. He did mention I had a cavity that needed to be filled. There’s no way I’m going back to this dentist and I’m a little afraid to try another one after this experience. Can a cavity wait until I go home for Thanksgiving?
Stacey A.
Dear Stacey,
Each cavity is a little different. I’d ask the office of the dentist you visited most recently to send copies of your x-rays to your hometown dentist. They should do that without any problems. Ask your family dentist to look at them and see if he thinks it can wait. If he says yes, then you can probably wait until you go home. Though truthfully, cavities can unexpectedly spread rapidly, so be aware if you start feeling pain, you may want to schedule an emergency appointment.
You may not have to schedule all dental visits around your trips to visit your family. There are dentists who are just as kind and gentle as your home dentist. Do a local internet search for terms like “sedation dentist” or “cater to cowards dentist”. These dentists are typically your more patient and gentle practitioners. Don’t forget to check out their reviews to make sure patients who’ve actually visited their offices agree with the dentist’s claims.
I’m sure you’ll be able to find a dentist who is just as good as your old one. Hopefully, it won’t take too many tries. But, as you’ve learned, there’s nothing better than a dentist you trust, who puts you at ease, and treats you with respect.
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