Pearly Whites

I had a dental checkup this week, and it was scheduled that I would bring Greta so she could start to see the whole process in anticipation of her first visit sometime before her fourth birthday. (Always a huge relief, I had a great checkup by the way.) Now, I am well aware that there are some people out there that may be amazed that this is Greta's first dental experience as it 'recommended' that children go to the dentist as soon as their first tooth makes an appearance. However, I do not agree, and so Greta will go this summer, after the insurance kicks in for her.

She was very interested watching the hygenist clean. She stood next to me, peering upon my gaping mouth on wobbly tiptoes. I had to do my best to stay relaxed as I was flossed -- an act that I have to admit I do not do regularly, and thus cringe at completely during the visit. Greta was allowed to pick out my color of toothbrush (I tried to encourage what color, but she ended going up going with orange. Better than yellow I guess.) Greta also received a new toothbrush -- and it was a princess one. She was very happy.

As the dentist came in to check over our mouths, Greta was a bit hesitant. She sat on my lap as the doctor checked my mouth and counted my teeth -- all their but the wisdom teeth -- and then did a great job letting the dentist look in her mouth. Greta has all 20 teeth, but I could've told her that, I remember the teething, and they all look good. Greta does a pretty good job brushing her teeth, so I was pleased that it showed. The neat thing is, they used a disposable mouth mirror for her and Greta was allowed to keep the mirror. How cool is that!

And then... the dentist said... "Well, I can tell she's a thumbsucker". Well, duh. She was doing it as you came in the exam room. Her teeth do not match up right here, showing me the gap, albeit small and unnoticable to us non-dental folks. As I told her yes, she does, blah blah blah, somehow -- and this really ticks me off -- somehow the dentist just HAD to get in there how HER 2 year old doesn't suck her thumb or take a pacifier. It didn't relate to anything at all within the conversation, and to me was a slap in the face. Good thing I'm not a quick thinker as far as comebacks are concerned, in fact I still can't think of what I 'would've/should've' said, but boy I hope I teach this woman's child someday! We'll see who's who then dental lady!

Fortunately, that comment did sting Greta a little. She didn't suck her thumb the rest of the evening, and even took it out when she inadvertently started to and said "the dentist said noooooo thumbsucking...." It took a little longer to fall asleep that night, and I think she eventually did suck her thumb, but it's all about baby steps right? Yesterday she was complaining much of the evening "I want to suck my thumb. I need something to suck on. I really need someting to suck on Mommy." I thought it was such an interesting comment and observation of her own needs and desires.

So, it's a work in progress, but the seed has been planted at least. And no one has any cavities.

I used my new orange toothbrush this morning and you know what? It really doesn't matter what color your toothbrush is, it brushes just the same.