Where's Wally?

 Answer; On the dentist's ceiling!

This morning I have a very early start because I have a dental appointment at 9. and I need to allow an hour for the journey. Although Roshan is the best dentist I have ever had, and I am much more chilled at his surgery than in any previous practice, I still get a little anxious [especially when injections and drilling are involved]

I have three 'coping mechanisms' for managing my stress. 

1. I mentally sing my way through favourite hymns. Usually good until |get stuck at verse three and forget the words
2. I practice 'box breathing' - where you inhale for a count of 5, hold your breath for 5, exhale for 5 and then wait for 5. 
3. I stare at the ceiling and try and spot Wally on the huge poster up there. 

Roshan does change the poster sometimes, it is about the third I have seen since we joined the practice in 2021. But last year when I had a series of appointments over a few weeks, could remember where Wally was every time I sat down. 

I am trying to be chilled about this encounter today. It will be the most expensive visit I have ever had, and the day after a large garage bill. But I am grateful for having a reliable car to get me to the dentist. For having a dentist at all - rare as hen's teeth in Norfolk [Norfolk hens lost all their teeth years ago due to lack of dentists] And for having a dentist who is so good.

I have to sign a consent form before the implant procedure. I read the 'post op advice' last night. 

I can manage the salt water mouthwash for a week. 

I am not bothered about 'no alcohol' for a week.

I can avoid solid foods and drink Huel protein drinks for a day or two.

But I am ridiculously stressed about not having tea or coffee for twenty four hours!

How do you cope with dental treatment?