I've been going to the same dentist for years but haven't had a regular hygienist. I would get cleaned by anyone and everyone. It was never pleasant but I was easy. I thought that is what cleanings should feel like--until I fell into Marsha's chair. It was hygiene heaven. She made my mouth marvel. She was gentle and careful and thorough. She made great suggestions. It was my first time with her and I felt cheated for all these years that I had been missing out on that level of care. When I booked my return visit, I made a special request for Marsha! I was finally excited for a cleaning in nearly 18 years of dental visits.
Wanting to be sure that I would be treated to Marsha's ministrations, I called my dentist's office the day before my cleaning to confirm my time with Marsha. I was looking forward to my teeth spa. I was not prepared for the news. Masha was gone. Retired. She'd taken her gentle hands and generous smile and left. What I felt was beyond disappointment. My teeth felt grief and a deep loss of a fleeting but profound love! I had to fight my selfishness. After all, Marsha was an older lady who had suffered from some serious medical problems. She left to take it easier. But here I was, thinking about myself,crushed and devastated!
Reluctantly, practically, I had to agree to be seen by their temp. Who's ever heard of such a thing. This should have been a red flag! What's wrong with this woman that she can't find full time anywhere?
I found out once I was reclined, mouth agape under the bright lights. "Oh Marsha" was all I could moan silently. If I had one shot at the fountain of youth, I would have gladly baptised Marsha to bring her back to full youth and health.
I didn't trust this girl--and that's what she was. Barely in her twenties and scrawny. Didn't look life her life experience would fill a bucket. That lack of experience showed up as she proceeded to attack my plaque! Stab, stab, jab, jab. She acted as if she were in a heavy weight bout with a boxer and not engaged in the delicate business of caring for my teeth. I thought for a minute she thought my gums were a voodoo doll and she was getting revenge on a nameless enemy.
By the end of the ordeal, I could hardly speak. She did a good job but the ends did not justify the means. I am due for another cleaning soon but I refuse to be back in her chair. I didn't complain that day, but if I have to face her the next time, you can bet I will have a thing or two to say.
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