Grin and Bear It - The Fangs and Flares of the Dentist’s Lair

Oh boy, the dentist's office. A place where I don't exactly RSVP with enthusiasm. It's like I’m in a dental safari, complete with probing tools, buzzing drills, and the ever-so-intimidating dental chair. But fear not, my fellow lupus thrivers, because we're about to embark on a hilarious yet informative journey through the wild world of dental work as you battle lupus!

Let me first preface this with saying I do not like the dentist. That is putting it quite lightly. I honestly HATE every facet of dealing with issues with my teeth. So, I have to try and make it as comical as I can in order to not be riddled with anxiety on my visits.

Picture this, I’m in the waiting room, lupus flare in full effect. I’m sweating because of course I’m nervous. Sitting and waiting at the waiting room Olympics.

The waiting room Olympics

Before I even hit the dental chair, I have to face the waiting room. It’s a battlefield of outdated magazines and overly enthusiastic receptionists. As a lupus warrior, I've mastered the art of waiting. In fact, I could probably win a gold medal in the Waiting Room Olympics for endurance. For me, patience is not just a virtue. With lupus it is most definitely a survival skill.

Finally, after the long wait I am called back. I swear dentists love to ask, "Have you been flossing regularly?” Yes of course I have. In between the pains in my jaw, the teeth sensitivity, and my dry mouth. Of course, I have been flossing.

Asking this question as she leads me to the dental chair that is long dreaded every visit.

The dreaded dental chair dilemma

Ah, the dental chair, a throne of discomfort for me. It's not exactly a La-Z-Boy, but hey, I can't have everything. The real challenge is getting comfortable without looking like I’m auditioning for a Cirque du Soleil act. Between my knees not helping me to bend to my arms giving out trying to hold me up. It’s like a fight before I even sit down. Then when I'm finally able to sit in the chair the lights bring me dizziness and physical pain in my eyes.

A visit that should be simple becomes a time of just trying to survive through it.

Navigating the sea of instruments

Once I get settled, it's time for the dental instruments to make their grand entrance. I meet my arch-nemeses, the scraper, the drill, and the explorer. It's like a dental Avengers movie, only with less spandex. While the instruments may seem intimidating, I have to remember that I've faced tougher foes. This helps me calm myself down until it’s time for X-rays.

The X-ray conundrum

X-rays, the paparazzi of the dental world. I whisper to myself, get ready for your close-up!

First, the lead apron descends. I worry and wonder if it's really protecting me from radiation. Then, I just resolve that this is my new suit in my Marvel debut as super warrior.

Second, placing the X-ray film in my mouth, poking my already hurt teeth. I’m trying not to slobber as the dental assistant talks, laughs and asks questions. It's a challenge to hold those awkward positions while the X-ray machine does its thing. I just keep imagining I’m the star in my own action movie.

Finally, the dentist comes in with all of the work that needs to be done. She chides me about not flossing more. I give my rebuttal that it’s not just about flossing more. Additionally, I explain to her I have lupus. Hence, many medications and the disease itself can severely affect my teeth. At first, she looks at me kind of crazy. Immediately I begin to educate her. My somewhat lighthearted visit, in my mind, turns into a complete educational moment.

The important discussion

The critical moment of explaining lupus and all that comes with it ensues. To clarify, I inform the dentist that I can’t have regular Novocain. This is due to the medication I take and the possibility of heart issues during procedures. Finally, she gets it and begins to listen and take notes. A rundown of the different medications I’m on gives her pause. On the other hand, I can see the glimmer in her eyes to learn more.

I am sure she did not expect the full-on classroom talk. But I am glad she stopped, listened and began to want to do more research to learn how to treat me.

Lupus-friendly dental tips

Let’s get serious for a moment. As lupus warriors, taking care of our oral health is crucial. Lupus can sometimes bring along dental challenges. For me it's been essential to communicate openly with my dentist about my condition. In addition, regular dental check-ups, gentle brushing, and flossing have become allies in maintaining a healthy smile. In order to keep any teeth issues from developing into something greater, I have found it to be important to keep a healthy mouth.

In conclusion, my lupus warriors, fear not the dental chair! Approach it with a sense of humor, a strategic pillow, and maybe a mental cape. After all, conquering dental appointments is just another chapter in the epic saga of being a lupus superhero. Keep smiling, keep laughing, and remember, you've got this!