Dentist issue and RA
Upset because I think my dentist is annoyed with me. I am UK NHS and he's been my dentist for 16 years. Before I got ill he was pleasant enough although could be blunt. When dealing with my rheumatoid arthritis though, I feel he just doesn't get it.
He has said things like
'Just use an electric toothbrush. It does all the work for you. ' Fair, for a person without RA. For one who does though it felt simplistic and like why would you mot just do this?
He has described plaque as 'really bad' and said I needed to be coming in more. He supported me through 4 monthly cleanings and again, some visits ok, others not.
This incident prompted me to write in though. He said 'Your plaque control is much better, since when have you been using an electric toothbrush?" He knows I use one as has asked me a few times before so this felt loaded. Also when I mentioned I was still concerned about my jaw clicking he had his back to me and said 'Well if its not hurting dont worry about it then.' and sounded impatient. I felt upset at his response.
I went home and wrote an email saying
Please update my medical records to reflect that RA is a fluctuating disease.
That better plaque control is not down to better effort or motivation and it wouldn't be accurate to say otherwise.
That I am naturally more worried about changes in jaw joints as I have RA
That I find it challenging dealing with ra, colitis and dental health.
All I got back was an admin response saying 'Good morning. Thank you for your email. This has been passed on to Dr Malik and noted on your records. '
Honestly feels like a eff you. Now I am worried about my appointment early next year and whether he's even noted it or she has. 😔