Harbor Square Dental has your back (molars)
The Set Up…
I established care with Harbor Square Dental (HSD) shortly after they opened 16 years ago. My mom enthusiastically encouraged me to “try this wonderful new dentist,” she had found. I trusted my mom’s referral and at the same time, was skeptical, since “dentist” and “wonderful” were two words I had never heard used together.
Some Background…
Unfortunately, I was born one of those unlucky girls whose teeth and gums lost the genetic lottery. In order to “fix” all that, my mouth became a battleground starting at 7 years old. Like any great solider, I fought countless wars in hope of a freer, more peaceful future for all my teeth. Unfortunately, my many tours through dental offices did not treat me well. I would stiffen with fear when an annual reminder for a cleaning was left on my voicemail. I thought to myself: What bad news would I hear now? How much money would I have to spend that I did not have? How much pain would I have to endure from the hygienist who would scrape my teeth as if they were trying to reach my gall bladder? And most notably, what kind of judgment and lecture would I receive this time? As one could imagine, going to the dentist became increasingly more difficult; years would go by without a cleaning. But, the more I avoided the dentist, the more vicious the enemy lines of plaque grew. Plaque spread not only to my teeth, but seemed to grow into my willingness to open, trust, and therefore heal. That was, until I mustered up a mouthwash full of courage and scheduled my first visit with Harbor Square Dental.
The Bones….
The day I walked into their bright and welcoming office was the day my history of dental traumas began to subside. Harbor Square Dental is a place where good vibes permeate the atmosphere. From the beginning to the end of a visit, I am wrapped in warmth, attentiveness, good humor, and kindness. At HSD, I am not treated as a patient, an object to fix, or a bad x-ray. Rather, I am treated as a whole person who is entitled to dignity, care, and respect no matter the problems or fears I come in with. They truly listen to my needs and collaborate on solutions. I began at a pace consistent with my own comfort level and they met me with presence and gentle encouragement. I’ve realized that our mouths are one of the most vulnerable parts of our anatomy; made more vulnerable by experiences of pain or violation. The most remarkable thing about the staff at HSD is that they seem to know this innately. Being both medical providers and healers, they meet and walk with you through your vulnerabilities. When I am there, I feel safe, secure, and relaxed even though I know I may experience painful things or hear uncomfortable news. “Why, you may ask?” Because I know I will not be left alone with my fears. And I know that every woman on that team has my back (molars) in their tender hands.
Let’s Wrap it Up…
“You were right, Mom,” I said to her recently. “Harbor Square Dental is a wonderful place. Thank you.”
