Yep yep. I have dental anxiety for a multitude of reasons, beginning with a gruff, non-gentle dentist growing up. Braces. Oral surgery to replace teeth that never grew in. I was constantly going through this dental gauntlet and having to recover each time. I have other issues like adhd and aspergers, these things have prevented me from remembering or wanting to keep my teeth clean (and also a couple years of light drug use), so my teeth have gone to hell, and I havent had dental insurance since I was a kid.

BUT. I eventually realized I dont want my teeth to rot out of my head and cause further health issues. I dont want to die from something I could have helped. So, a couple years ago I chipped my front tooth, and that started a loong journey of getting my teeth back in order. Im getting a shit ton of things fixed, and everything out of pocket. But thats okay...id rather be in debt/broke than having a shit mouth. Now I brush with sonicare every day.

I just had another visit yesterday to get a root canal done, one of many. I still have anxiety about the dentist, and my current place is starting to get on my nerves. They cycle through doctors, and Im either told conflicting info about my treatment plan, or Im told the same thing over and over again by different people. The doctor I had yesterday was basically an overgrown fratboy who acted surprised when I started to feel pain. "Oh, well we can give you a stronger anesthetic, usually the regular stuff doesnt completely numb inflammed nerves, which you have." WELL WHY DIDNT YOU DO THAT IN THE FIRST PLACE IF YOU KNEW THE STATE OF MY NERVES YOU FISHCOCK.

In summary, my anxieties are rooted in: money, pain, shame.