I totally relate to that dentist anxiety...I just went for my first appointment in forever (I'm embarrassed to say how long 😅). Even though I'd been careful with flossing and brushing, I was still convinced they'd find something terrible. Turns out, everything was pretty okay, and my dentist was actually super nice about it. Sounds like you're already doing great, so maybe it'll be better than you expect. Hang in there—I get it though, easier said than done.
Totally get where you're coming from with the anxiety—my kiddo had a similar experience recently. Even though we were pretty diligent about brushing and flossing, I was still bracing myself for bad news. Turns out, things weren't nearly as scary as I'd imagined, and the dentist was really understanding about the nerves. Sounds like you're already doing all the right things, so hopefully your next visit will be smooth sailing too...but yeah, totally normal to feel anxious anyway. You're definitely not alone in that!
I can relate to that anxiety too—been going to the dentist for decades and still get a bit jittery beforehand. Funny thing is, I always expect the worst, but most times it's just fine. My dentist once joked that if everyone flossed as much as they worried about flossing, he'd be out of a job. Anyway, sounds like you're already ahead of the game with your routine...keep it up and you'll probably find each visit gets a little easier.
"Funny thing is, I always expect the worst, but most times it's just fine."
Haha, that's exactly how it goes for most people. Even working in dentistry, I still get a little nervous when I'm the one in the chair. I remember once, right before my own cleaning, I started mentally listing all the things I hadn't done perfectly...and of course, everything turned out fine. Sounds like you've got a solid routine down though—stick with it, and you'll probably find yourself worrying less and less each time.
"Sounds like you've got a solid routine down though—stick with it, and you'll probably find yourself worrying less and less each time."
I get what you're saying, but honestly, even with a solid routine, I still find myself second-guessing things. Maybe it's just me being overly analytical (wouldn't be the first time), but I've noticed that sometimes routines can make us complacent. Like, we start thinking we're doing everything right because we've done it the same way for ages, but small mistakes or oversights can creep in unnoticed.
For example, I used to floss religiously every night after brushing my teeth. Thought I was golden. But then my dentist pointed out that flossing before brushing might actually be more effective because it loosens plaque and debris first, allowing toothpaste to reach those areas better afterward. It seemed counterintuitive at first—I mean, I'd been doing it the other way around forever—but when I switched things up, I genuinely noticed a difference in how clean my teeth felt.
Not saying your routine isn't great (it probably is!), just that sometimes it's worth questioning even our best habits now and then. A little skepticism can lead to improvements we never expected. Or maybe that's just me overthinking again... wouldn't be surprised either way.
