Your Story in That Chair

She asked for your hand. You gave her your trust.

Bluey plays on the TV in front of us, but you take a moment to learn about the tools she’s presenting. Your palm lies open, and she talks about air and water.

“This little button will blow air, like this!”

You grin at the cool air on your skin. Unexpected, cool, and exciting. She then tells you about the water button.

“The butterfly button is for water! Let’s drop a bit in here.”

Again, you trust her. Your hand rests on hers. Easy. Calmed.

A little drop of water appears, and I see your cheeks push up from a bigger smile. Then, she shows you another device that will suction the water. You notice the purple and the sparkles.

“This one will drink the water, watch! Woosh!”

Your eyes look up at hers, and your trust grows another inch. Which is good, because she will need it for the cleaning that follows.

I feel your body melt into the seat below us. You lie on me—your head on my chest, your legs tucked between mine. There’s no fear, just curiosity. You watch her closely as she explains every item, every step. Her voice sweet and inviting.

She counts your teeth, cleans here and there, and guides you through what her hands are doing inside your mouth with those shiny metal wands. I watch out for signs of “I’m done with this,” but your body does not tense. You are still okay with all of this.

When she’s done, you pull my arm over your belly, holding me with both of your hands. I tell you how great you were and how much cleaner your teeth are now. I remind you how fun these dentist visits can be. You squeeze me a bit without looking away from Bluey and Bingo.

When they announce it’s all over, you jump up and ask, “Can I get a ducky?”

You remember these visits, you know there’s a dental goodie bag and an extra surprise once it’s done. And what a surprise it is, your new toothbrush has Anna and Elsa on it. Oh my.

On our way out, you hold the bag and my hand. We stop at the water fountain we saw on our way in. You ask us to come close, and we do. Sitting and watching the water for a few minutes, I feel grateful that your story in that chair will be softer than mine was.