There are certain words that can be spoken to make all the difference between whether a person goes just for the basic health care procedures or opts for the Hollywood blow-out version of self-improvement. Those words are: “Your insurance won't cover it.”You have to give people credit who go ahead with the boob jobs, the facelifts and the collagen implants when they have to pay for it out of their own pockets. It means looking good and being popular really is important, which is what I have always believed. Sure, having a nice personality and a stimulating intellect might win you friends and admirers, but if you really want to make it in life, kid, you need to look hot. For me it involved a relatively minor dental procedure. I say “minor” ironically, because what's minor for many people is major anguish for me/Kathy Hedberg, Lewiston Tribune. More here.

Question: Do you fear going to the dentist?

On Facebook, sidekick CindyH posted this morning that she was on her way to the dentist “which isn’t fun anymore since they won’t give me nitrous oxide for routine cleanings. Then there’s the lying about flossing. This time I’m going to tell the truth.” Which prompted another commenter to post: “Look. I don’t floss unless I’m trying to cram for this dental exam. I know I should. I’m a bad person. Blah. Blah. Blah. I should floss more. Noted. Let’s move on.” To which, Cindy responded: “It’s the sad look of disappointment that’s hard to deal with. I mean I only see these people twice a year, but I crave their approval. And a prize from the treasure box.” (SR File Photo for illustrative purposes)

Question: Do all dentists give patients that sad look, even once in awhile, to make us feel bad re: not doing all we can do to protect the pearly whites?