Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro: 23oC, warm, overcast and with showers.
It’s Friday, the end of the week. I have a few classes, and then I’ll achieve another milestone.
At 2:00 pm this afternoon, I have a dentist appointment to continue the treatment of my teeth, specifically the implants.
Everyone has some fear or phobia. Mine was, and still is, to a certain extent, the dentist. When I was very small, my mother took me to the dentist, and 5 to 6 teeth were extracted at once. From then on, my feud with the dentist began.
I’ve tried to get my teeth treated several times over the years, but I kept starting and stopping about 20 times. Now, I’m committed to seeing it through. I believe that neglecting my dental health is linked to low self-esteem, but that’s not a problem for me anymore. I have no choice but to complete the treatment, so I’m fully committed and ready to go.
What has also helped is Doctor Thomas. The dental practice is spotless, which is essential. I have been to dental practices that were doubtful, to say the least. Like anything, the first thing to check is if the place is clean and organised.
When I worked with boats in the past, my first impression when I walked into a boatyard was that it was reasonably clean, tidy, and organized and that all the tools were in good shape. The same is true for most things in life, including dental practice.
It was also important for me to consider the human aspect. Instead of being roped into some plan and financial obligation that prioritises the clinic’s financial gain over the patient’s needs, I appreciated that Doctor Thomas and his secretary Malu were very professional and inviting. They never once mentioned money at the beginning.
Indeed, I may spend as much or even more with this personal approach, but it’s worth it. I am confident that my money is being well spent. Why? Because I am not just another face in the crowd. Finally, it’s evident that besides being highly skilled in his profession, Doctor Thomas genuinely enjoys what he does.
This passion turns his work into an art. We should judge people by their actions, not just their words. When you see someone doing what they love and excelling at it, it becomes their art.
I have complete confidence in Doctor Thomas and his work. He is the only dentist I have trusted over the last 20 or 30 years, and this confidence has enabled me to address a long-standing and ongoing issue. He also has an adorable secretary, Malu, who is always polite and helpful. The second stage of the treatment has been completed. He cut open the gums and put in the pins. There are now two or three more stages, and my smile will return in full form.
The appointment was scheduled for 2:00 in the afternoon. I arrived at 1:45, and we started immediately. We discussed family matters and caught up on news about Brazil. I left the practice around 3:00 pm, after just an hour. I was still feeling the effects of the local anaesthetic in my gum and mouth, but I was happy. I’m finally getting to where I should have been long ago. Hopefully, very shortly, I’ll have a smile on my face.
I am happy with myself and extremely grateful to Doctor Thomas and Malu for their help on this journey.
In bed by 11.00 pm.
Thank you.
Thanks for reading this blog post. Please explore my other posts and share your thoughts in the comments section.
Richard
