I have gone to the same dentist for a long time. We had this wonderful understanding where he would give his opinion about caring for my teeth, and I would let him know whether I wanted anything done. When he would recommend certain procedures, he would always finish by gently saying, “But I know you will let me know if you agree.” I have never felt the need to follow his suggestions beyond having regularly scheduled cleaning appointments and repairing a broken filling, and each cleaning visit has usually gone very well. 

Almost two years ago, however, I went for a routine cleaning, and the dentist announced that a tooth was in need of immediate attention. I was surprised because I wasn’t having any trouble with my teeth. He announced ominously after my X-ray that unless I attended to that tooth, I would need to be referred to a specialist. He was insistent that I heed his recommendation. 

Because of our harmonious history, I was taken aback by his tone and could feel myself getting caught up in his concern. I agreed to have the filling in the tooth removed and the area of concern addressed. During this process, the tooth broke apart. I was now told that a specialist would have to be called. The tooth was now mostly gone, so a crown was put over the remainder so that that tooth area would line up with the teeth around it. I was told that the specialist would have to remove this crown to treat the affected area and then replace it afterward. A routine visit had turned into a very painful process, and I was quite unsettled as I left the office.