When the Dentist Asks Questions

Max was referred to a pediatric dental specialist because has unusual decay along his bottom teeth. While the dentist and pediatrician (kindly) attributed this to the acid reflux Max has had since infancy, this new specialist decided to interview Max for more answers.

The dentist (who, it must be noted, was charismatic and delightful): So, Max. Do you watch the Buffalo Bills?

Max (rolling his eyes): Only in real life.

The dentist: Oh! Only in real life. Well, okay. So I looked at your teeth and I talked to your dentist. Do you know why?

Max: Well, I'm a kindergartener now, so I'm guessing it's because I had a growth spurt in my teeth.

The dentist: Aha. So...you're a very bright light bulb, aren't you.

Max: I did just graduate Pre-K.

The dentist: Oh! That's nice. I have a question for you. Do you eat a lot of candy?

Max: YES.

The dentist: I thought you might. And, I'm just thinking here, but...you're awfully handsome and pretty smart. I bet people really like giving you candy.

Max: Yes.

The dentist: Are your grandparents in town?

Max: My dad is not.

The dentist: ...Oh? Okay...?

Me (attempting to intervene): His dad is just out of town for work for a couple days.

Max (jumping right back in): He brings me presents.

The dentist (chuckling): I see. What's your dad's job?

Max: I don't know.

(The dentist turns to me expectantly, but I don't know either because my husband does mysterious accounting work that eludes most people. I explain this, stupidly.)

The dentist (realizing I'm a lost cause and turning back to Max): But are your grandparents here in town?

Max: Well, yes. They are.

The dentist: Okay. Let's use our imaginations. If you and I were standing outside your grandma's house RIGHT NOW, and I told you I'd give you TEN DOLLARS to run in the house and grab me some candy, could you do that really fast?

Max: YES.

The dentist: You'd know right where to find it?

Max: In the kitchen cupboard. I had a Snickers today.



So...I feel like the dentist got all the information he needed from that conversation. And more.