Here's good advice: Take care of your teeth.

Here's advice for you rebellious types:
If you don't take care of your teeth, you will need a tooth extracted someday. When that happens, do NOT ask for local anesthesia rather than the Full Monty, so to speak.

Now I don't know why I needed this tooth extracted. I practice good dental hygiene, and have never suffered malnutrition. However, poverty has not allowed me to visit a doctor or dentist as often as I should have. So there I was today, getting a tooth pulled. I wanted to be thrifty, plus I have a kinesiology final tonight that requires me to be alert, so I requested the local anesthesia over full sedation.

I'll spare the teeth-grinding details, and just say it was HORRIBLE. I've had oral surgery before without sedation, and I knew it was bad, but this was WORSE. Oh yes, there will be nightmares and flashbacks.

Now it's over, and I have the reputation as a tough babe for refusing the sedation. But it wasn't worth it. So take heed! Tell your dentist to crank up that laughing gas.

--Jez"Toofless"zika