The Tooth Doctor

I have to go my semi-annual checkup at the dentist today. Not one of my favourite things, as you can imagine. It's not that I have a lot of tooth problems (I've only ever had 2 cavities), it's just that I don't like the experience of the dentist. Sharp instruments, that antiseptic smell, the uncomfortable feeling of someone else's fingers in my mouth and above all, the palpable sense of fear that permeates the waiting area. They say animals can sense fear and I'm here to tell you , so can I. I don't know if it's the dilated pupils or the trickle of sweat on the person next to me, but it's always there. Fear of pain. Fear of having to pay an expensive bill. Or maybe...fear that you will be called a liar after you somewhat over-enthusiastically respond to the dentist that yes, you absolutely do floss your teeth. This lie of course is almost always answered with a whithering look of disapproval that hearkens you back to that moment in your childhood where you first experienced a similar look from your mother because she knew you were lying too.