Expecting Dental Embarrassment? Here’s What Your Dentist Will Likely Say Instead!

Are you expecting your dentist to say things like, “You haven’t been taking good enough care of your teeth,” or “it’s your fault for not flossing every day”?  If so, it would be understandable why you’ve been putting off making an appointment. Many patients are ashamed of their smiles and feel too embarrassed to “face their dentist.”

However, the reality is that your dentist is much more likely to root for you and be supportive! Here are some examples of what they’ll probably say instead.

“Been There, Done That!”

You might be surprised at what your dentist has seen in all their time examining and cleaning people’s teeth. Rest assured, you’re not the first cavity or case of gum disease that they’ve seen, and you’re certainly not the last! Rather than comment on the strangeness of your smile, your dentist is more likely to report the facts and tell you how you can manage the problem.

“Let’s Get Your Oral Health Back on Track”

Of course your dentist will be glad to see that your oral health is in good standing, but they won’t be disappointed if it’s not. Dentists understand that not everyone has the same access to dental education or dental care, and sometimes life or plain ‘ol genetics create circumstances that are out of your control. They prefer to focus on getting you the treatment you need in order to get your oral health back on track.

“The Best Offense is A Good Defense”

The last thing anyone wants is a lecture! Maybe you’ve been on the receiving end of a speech or two about bleeding gums and daily flossing. A good dentist, though, won’t try to shame you into taking care of your teeth. Instead, they’ll likely simply tell you that preventative practices like brushing and flossing are the best (and cheapest!) way to fend off conditions like cavities and gum disease. Now that’s positive motivation!

“Say ‘Cheese!’”

Did you wince just now? Sometimes patients are nervous about anyone seeing their not-so-pearly-whites, not just their dentist. But this is another insecurity that your dentist can and will readily help you with! If a professional cleaning doesn’t quite produce the photo-ready smile you’re looking for, your dentist can help you choose a cosmetic dental treatment that will get the job done.

Basically, your dentist is on your side. As a healthcare provider, they simply want to help you feel better about your teeth and oral health – not worse. Trust their assistance, and your next appointment will likely have you saying, “That wasn’t so bad!”

About the Author

Dr. Bob Heil goes out of his way to treat his patients like family. He’s even completed DCOS certification for sedation dentistry so he can help those with dental anxiety feel more comfortable during their treatments. If you’d like to visit a friendly, judgement-free dental practice, don’t hesitate to call Dr. Heil’s office at 920-235-0320.