Life is full of embarrassing moments, such as when you forget someone’s name you really should know by now, you dress inappropriately for a party or work event, or you say the wrong thing in front of your boss or in-laws. One important experience doesn’t have to feel embarrassing at all: visiting the dentist. Even if you have avoided this appointment for a long time, you don’t have to dread this situation or feel mortified to have your dentist look at your mouth. How can you know your dental visit won’t be embarrassing? Keep reading to find out!
Your Dentist Doesn’t Judge You by the Current State of Your Smile.
Embarrassment stems from perceived social shame. If you assume someone will think your teeth and gums should be in a certain condition, and they don’t meet these standards, you fear their judgment. Fortunately, dentists focus more on how to resolve problems, not necessarily how they developed in the first place. In other words, your dentist is more concerned with fixing the issue than wasting time to dwell on how you came to be this way. When the other person isn’t judging you and simply wants to move forward, you don’t need to feel embarrassed.
You Won’t Get a Berating Lecture About What You Did Wrong.
Most dentists nowadays realize no one wants to be corrected harshly or talked to like a criminal. It only discourages the patient from returning. As a result, fewer dentists take this approach anymore.
Besides, not all dental problems come from hygiene neglect; some patients are more likely to contract gum disease and other issues from their genetics, medications they take, and other factors. Your dentist is aware of these variables, so they don’t want to add insult to injury and lecture patients who can’t control or change certain circumstances. Again, dentists now are more focused on getting you out of pain and restoring function, not making you feel guilty or ashamed.
The Results of Treatment Are Worth Even a Moment of Embarrassment.
Admitting you have a dental problem or haven’t seen a dentist in a long time may seem overwhelming and scary, but that brief moment doesn’t compare to the powerful feeling you can have after the issue is corrected. When you have a full, healthy smile again, your confidence and self-esteem can soar, and opportunities can suddenly open up to you. You may feel uncomfortable in the moment, but the outcome of getting back on track is well worth the journey!
Ultimately, your dentist is happy to see you, no matter how your teeth and gums look right now. Instead of embarrassing you, your dentist will help you feel welcome, appreciated, and reassured that whatever issues you have can be resolved. Rather than avoiding beneficial care, take that step and schedule your dental appointment now without worry of embarrassment!
About the Practice
Williamsburg Dental always strives to make patients feel comfortable in their six locations in Lincoln. We offer many services; in fact, we try not to refer patients to other offices because we want to meet everyone’s needs as much as possible. If you have concerns about an upcoming dental visit, feel free to talk to our team about them. We can offer sedation to help those who face dental anxiety and other accommodations to give you a pleasant experience. To contact us, call one of our offices or visit us online here.