Dentistry is one of the oldest medical professions in the world, with historical references going as far back as 7000-5000 B.C. And, for almost just as long, people have hated dentists, associating them with needles, drills, and pain. The fear of the dentist is a very common phenomenon, I also used to literally panic when I had to see a dentist.

But, as with any profession, there are great ones and there are terrible ones. There are really brilliant ones out there who do care about our oral health foremost. Here are three major reasons why these dentists deserve our respect, compassion, and also our money.

   •Their constant pursuit of patient comfort

The advancements coming out of the dental industry are almost all to make the experience better for the patient. A smart toothbrush that cleans your teeth in 10 seconds means fewer trips to the dentist and less time spent when you’re there. Digital X-rays allow for more thorough pictures, which means better fitting and more comfortable components while exposing the patient to less radiation.

One of the better advancements is digital impressions. Two to five minutes of a thick, gag-inducing goop crammed in your mouth is no longer necessary. A digital wand does a better job in a fraction of the time. Dental researchers work tirelessly on development for the well-being of the patient.

   •Their willingness to do a dirty & painful job

My research on reviews and new technics has shown that a San Tan Valley dentist, (like all other dentists I guess) spends hours with his or her neck turned at odd angles, back hunched over, and arms and hands in awkward positions. The physical toll this takes is often significant, resulting in chronic pain, surgeries, time away from work, and disability.

Then there re are dangerous risks involved because of exposure to bodily fluids and pathogens. It does not stop there. Dentists are told regularly by the same people they try to help how hated they are, how much discomfort they cause, and how they are not worth the cost for the services performed. What about taking the risk of catching the COVID19 virus on a daily base?

   •Their genuine desire to make you happy

The appearance of your smile can make or break self-confidence and affect every aspect of life. No one understands this better than a dentist. They possess a unique ability to better their patients’ lives profoundly. It is gaining this ability that drives many to enter the dentistry field. Contrary to what some believe, many dentists are people who take genuine pleasure in making other people happy.

Decades of a collective societal disdain have made dentists guilty until proven innocent. If your relationship with your dentist is contentious, find another one. From offering digital impressions to improving your overall health, dentists have much to offer. They deserve respect and should not have to tolerate inappropriate behaviour. You have as much responsibility to be a good patient as they do to be good doctors. It’s a lot about the right chemistry!