by Susan Malotte

Created on: December 20, 2008

I bolstered up my pride, sucked up my worst fears
As I walked into the dreaded dentist office
Knowing I hadn't been in there many years

They handed me paperwork with that huge questionnaire
Page after page after page, I swear
Chewing my pencil and pulling my hair
Trying to remember things I really didn't want to share

And as if right on cue
The minute I was through
A smiling assistant came up to the door

Signaled me to follow her, inquired what I was there for?

I only wanted my teeth cleaned, I knew I was due
Maybe an exam and an x-ray or two
Didn't expect a blood pressure cuff, that was new
Wow, must be nervous, it's one forty two!

When did that happen, what else had I missed?
After so many absent years from the dentist
So many high tech changes, I hadn't a clue
That instead of a chart a computer would come into view

After x-rays and exams and discussion, I could see
That I wasn't getting out of this office scott free
My teeth would be beautiful, my cavities he would fill
Insurance and I would definitely be splitting this bill

The dentist and I laid out an elaborate plan
One that I knew full well would assuredly span
What seemed to be forever but was only next year
While I have to admit, his plan was concise and clear.

He brought in the needle and I started to squirm
But I was determined to be calm, to hold firm
He started working on my teeth, started to drill
Working on the cavities he wanted to fill

My mind was whirling, wondering why
With all these modern advancements why didn't they try
To make this process of dentistry easier and more fun
Instead of leaving us wishing and hoping to be finished and done

Finally it was over and he backed away
He laid his tools down on the silver try
He pulled off his face mask and I heard him say
Chew carefully, no cold stuff the rest of the day

I tapped my cheek lightly to see if I could feel
But it was numb, numb, numb, as if it were froze
I made myself crazy looking in the mirror
Pursing my lips and trying to pose

I have a short list of things I should and shouldn't do
An appointment card with the date and time I'm next due
I'm done for the day and I try real quick
To find my lips as I apply my favorite lipstick.

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