How do you feel when someone says this to you? Would you feel good or some fear inside you creeping in? For me, I felt both when my patient uttered this 3 words to me last week. ” I trust you Dini”, he said. At that particular moment, I felt happy and grateful because he trusted my capability, competency and care as a dentist. Yet, at the same time, I felt a huge weight on my shoulders. What if I can’t deliver his dream smile? What if the treatment took longer than I promised him? What if he doesn’t like the end result? All these thoughts were on my mind prior to the treatment.

Meet Mr. Azam. He is a distant relative of mine. He contacted me about a month back asking about alternative treatment to denture. We were under the MCO at that time. Once the MCO was lifted to CMCO, he immediately made an appointment to see me.

Once I finished the initial examination, I explained to him his treatment options. He was keen to do the Fiber Reinforced Composite Bridge because it was the least invasive technique compared to the conventional bridge.

I first took his upper and lower impression to do a mocked up. I usually do this and present it to my patient before the actual treatment takes place. Only once the patient agrees would I proceed with the case.

I showed Mr. Azam the mock up. He was satisfied with it. It took me nearly 2 hours to complete the treatment. Honestly , I was extra nervous that day. I have no idea why, but I always have this nervousness feeling when treating someone I know. Maybe, I was afraid of disappointing him. The pressure doubles, but the reward is 10 fold. Once I finished the treatment, his reaction upon seeing himself in the mirror was priceless! ” I look handsome! ” he blurted. I was relieved when I heard it. Happy? Definitely!

Another happy and satisfied patient. Another Fiber Reinforced Bridge to the rescue. 🙂 I am always grateful for my job. Being able to make people happy is one of the greatest joy in life! Thank you for trusting me.

Till then,

Dr. Dini (dini@drfauziah.com)