Several xrays to pinpoint the problem. But, as it turns out, I have clenched my jaw so much, the muscles on that side of my face are swollen. He told me to treat my face as though it were a "runner's injury"--ice and heat and ibuprofen. He patted me on the arm, gave the nurse a meaningful look and said: no charge.
I wanted to cry. I HATE IT that I get myself in this state. I walk around like this enough that I don't even realize how tightly wound I am. It is embarassing and infuriating and time consuming. I really want to get to the place that my mental choices filter down to my physical self.
Now, now CB123, look at the language you use in this second paragraph. Do you think talking about yourself that way eases your clenched jaw or exacerbates it?
You want to, "get to the place that my mental choices filter down to my physical self." Well good news! You are on the verge. Your dentist just gave you important information to help you make that connection and he gave you a great gift - no charge was more than a gift to your pocketbook, it was a gift to your heart - your dentist understood that you are struggling and he wanted to help. So, from here it looks like some very wonderful things came out of that trip to the dentist: 1)important information about how your emotional state is effecting your dental health - and just in time to prevent any real damage; 2) the knowledge that your dentist is a kind, generous man who things you are a deserving person; and 3) you will get the help you need. I'd say that was a wonderful experience rather than one that is, "embarassing and infuriating and time consuming".
I guess it's all in how you look at it. What do you say CB? - your friend and admirer - Gaining Strength
