Acid Reflux and a Cracked Tooth

“Ah, yes, bottom left molar. We’ll freeze the area, then we’ll take an x-ray.” She wasn’t sure whether her dentist’s soft-spoken running commentary was meant for her or him, but she found it soothing. She had been afraid with her mouth stuck open wide that she’d choke on the stomach acid in her throat. But her reflux had subsided under his calm voice. Next time at dinner when tensions flare and she tastes acid, she’ll remember that voice, and perhaps she won’t bite down so hard and crack a bit of tooth off and almost choke on the ragged shard.

Inspired by Here I Go Again and a recent trip to the dentist (though the “tensions” at the dinner table are entirely fictitious). Image by Shutterstock.