The Maven’s attracted to tales of why people avoid the dentist like personal injury attorneys are attracted to ambulances. The reason being is that most stories are flat out Bull. The needle, the smells, the drill, blah, blah, blah. Those are all just euphemisms for “cost.” And, for most individuals where cost is the main factor, PRIORITY would be the full explanation – other things are more important.
Yes, dentistry can get pricey when you require major treatment like crowns and bridges, but routine cleaning and exams (National US average $140) are less than either a two month cable bill ($150) or two month cell phone bill ($146). It’s these routine exams and cleanings that keep people from needing more expensive dentistry. So, the individuals who avoid check-ups based on the notion that “dentistry is too expensive,” create a self fulfilling prophesy. Dental phobia does exist, but according to this Ezine article, only about 5% of individuals completely avoid the dentist due to fear.
Here’s a random survey result from “Smilesdoc” in Canada which supports the thesis that cost is the most common hindrance:
The Mavens’ observation over the years is those who deem their teeth a low priority exhibit the same behavior: when push comes to shove (and certainly not before) they’ll do anything to save those 12 front teeth and to hell with the back ones. Everything behind the eyeteeth becomes like that junk drawer in your kitchen--Looks fine from the front, but God help you if you open it.
Many are fooled by the euphemisms and invent crap destined to collect dust in the storage closets of the Kool-aid-drinking-dentists. Others understand the euphemisms and prey on the simplicity of the lesser animals.
The latest whiz-bang gewgaw to hit dentistry is a device purported to cancel out the sound of the dental drill. British scientists, acting on the premise that the drill sound is “the prime cause of anxiety about dental treatment” and the major deterrent to those who would seek dental care, have used “adaptive filtering” technology in headphones to electronically remove the high pitched sound. Brian Millar, the lead researcher at King’s College London is seeking investors to bring his invention to market.
Here’s The Mave’s take on what this device does.
It turns this:
Into this:
And at least you know when the train is approaching.
