Dentists and Trust

I'd like to share my horrific dental experience of last week with everyone.

Sitting in the dentist's chair, trusting that the dentist will care for your well being puts the patient in a very vulnerable position.

I was scheduled for a skin graph from my upper right soft palette to my lower front gum.

When I first arrived at the dentists office I asked the dental assistant for the relaxing gas, nitrous oxide, but was told that it would not be possible because the gas apparatus would
be in the way while performing this treatment. The dental assistant then said
"This is a very quick procedure" so not to worry.

When the Dr. entered the treatment room I asked that he take his time injecting the
Novocain because it can be very painful if injected too quickly. He behaved offended
by my request but did make an effort. I asked how the skin is actually attached to the gum
and he began with the prep for the procedure, brushing off my question.

First he injected my lower right jaw with Novocain, then the right upper palette.
He began to clean the area that was going to be graphed and it was sensitive so he
gave me another shot of Novocain in the lower left jaw. Then another shot of Novocain in
the same area but this time very quickly making it very painful.

The Dr. kept telling me, almost ordering me, that I must relax, that I had to relax.
Then he began grabbing my lower lip, pulling on it, telling me I had to relax my jaw.
Visibly and vocally angry, he jumped up from his seat and exclaimed, "I can't do this,
I can't do this. You have to relax. I can't do this if you don't relax. I'm going to have to
recommend you to a Periodontist. I'm going to have to recommend you to a Periodontist
for IV sedation", and he rushed out of the room.

By this time my mouth was totally numb and I was rather surprised so I sat there attempting to
register what had just happened.

Then within seconds, the Dr. came back in the room and said abruptly
"Get your things and get out of here."

I was shocked. He rushed me out of the treatment room and into the waiting area. His
staff was extremely uncomfortable, hustling to get me information for a Periodontist.

I was quite traumatized by the experience and felt assaulted by his unprofessional behavior.

I decided to take action and filed a formal complaint to the Colorado Dental Association in the hopes that the Dr. will be counseled regarding anger management.

I hope this does not happen to another patient. I will seek a new dentist for future treatment.