Everybody Has Something

My wife Paula reassured our new patient, "everyone has something." Our new patient Connie presented last week, and was able to share with us that she had difficulty going to the dentist because of her agoraphobia. Her travels from a neighboring town and venturing into a new environment was difficult, but she knew that something had to be done about her teeth.



"Some people are afraid of heights, others worry about getting cancer or losing a loved one. You just happen to have difficulty with new situations, people, and traveling to unfamiliar places." Paula explained to Connie. "Everyone has something, whether you realize it or not."



Connie came for her first treatment appointment today, and did well. She had three root canals done, laser gum removal to get at her decay under the gums, and four teeth built up so they are white and shiny again.



Connie shared with us that she has been ashamed of her smile and of how she has let this go so long. She told us that she doesn't even kiss her husband anymore because she won't let him get that close to her decayed smile. A few short years ago, she had a beautiful smile and felt so much better about herself, but her agoraphobia kept her from maintaining her teeth. They had suffered greatly, as you can see by her before photo.



Connie asked that I share her story with others, and that she is continuing to make progress, both with her agoraphobia and also with her dental treatment. She did great today! At her request, I took this photo so she can have it as a record of her progress and so that it may serve as an inspiration to others. Our ability to take care of Connie is mostly because of our understanding of agoraphobia. Someone who is very close to me has struggled with agoraphobia for years. Few people know this, and fewer understand that someone's hardship can be a comfort to others.



Dear Friend;
It is because of your struggles and sharing your experiences with agoraphobia that I have been able to care for this precious young woman Connie. Without your help and without your suffering, I could never have understood what she was going through or what I could do to improve the quality of her life. You must know that I appreciate you so much and that Connie's life will be enriched more than you can know. Thank You!
God Bless You - Paul