I am supposed to go on a mission trip and am worried that I will disqualify myself if I tell my dentist everything. We are supposed to bring a letter of good health that includes both medical and dental. The thing is, I’ve had a toothache on and off on a canine tooth. I’m afraid if I tell him about it, I won’t get to go on my trip. Is it okay to leave something out when you’re talking to the dentist?
Ainsley
Dear Ainsley,
I can tell you are excited about your mission trip and it is wonderful that you are trying to help others. Here are some things to consider.
First, the toothache could be absolutely nothing to worry about. Your canine teeth roots can be long and up by your sinuses. It could be just a matter of some drainage or stuffiness that is giving referred pain.
Second, even if there is something wrong, it could be an easy quick solution and you are worrying over nothing.
Finally, if you ignore it and there is something there, that something could blow up while you are on your mission trip, leaving you with a dental emergency. If that happens, you probably will not have access to the proper care you need. Plus, you will be unable to serve the people you went there to help because you will be in too much pain.
Chances are, though, even if you do not tell your dentist if there is something wrong, he will find it in the course of your examination. It is always safer to be upfront with these types of things to be as efficient as possible.
Just because you have a toothache does not mean he cannot fix it in plenty of time for you to go on your trip with an honest clean bill of health.
This blog is brought to you by Lexington, KY Dentist Dr. John Weaver.
