It’s been too long.
We know. And we’re
not going to make
you feel worse about it.

Share how long it’s been and what’s kept you away. A dentist can read it without judgment, explain how they’d actually welcome you back, and outline a first visit that meets you where you are — then you decide whether to connect.

Woman at home looking at her teeth in a mirror
Woman sitting peacefully on a park bench, eyes closed, hands over her heart

The story in your head is usually worse than the chair.

After years away, it’s normal to jump to the worst—“They’ll pull everything” or “I can’t handle the pain.” Those fears feel true because you’ve never gotten a real answer.

Dentists who respond here see long gaps all the time. They’re looking for what’s urgent, what can wait, and what a first visit actually involves—not deciding your character.

A note about care: Nothing here replaces an exam. It replaces guessing alone.

Add what the questions don’t cover

We already have your practical preferences. Use your story to explain what made you stay away, what you fear a dentist may say, and what you need them to understand before you feel comfortable returning.

“I haven’t seen a dentist in more than ten years because I’m embarrassed by how much has changed. I’m afraid of being lectured or made to feel irresponsible. I need someone who will focus on what can be done now and explain things without judgment.”

Privacy note: Do not include your name, contact information, or other details that could identify you.

MatchMyDentist form asking a patient to share their story anonymously

What a personal response could look like

ACCEPT shares your contact information so the practice can reach you about scheduling. DECLINE keeps you anonymous and lets you request another match.

MatchMyDentist

Dr. Michael Ferner

General Dentist

Website

Thank you for saying plainly that it’s been years and that you’re embarrassed—that’s the kind of honesty that makes a first visit go well. I won’t know what’s happening until I examine you, but when people return after a long break we often find cavities, broken or worn teeth, and gum inflammation. That tells us where to start; it isn’t a judgment on you. After we look, we can separate what needs attention for comfort and health from what can wait. If getting your smile back is the priority, we can focus on cosmetic options first and build a staged plan around that—without trying to fix everything in one visit.

ACCEPT DECLINE

Illustrative example—not a diagnosis, quote, or treatment offer.

If no dentist fits, we’ll tell you.

A response is not guaranteed. If participating dentists do not believe they may align with what you shared, MatchMyDentist will let you know.

Ready to take the next step?

Tell a dentist what you’re dealing with and what you need them to understand. Find out how they might approach your situation before deciding whether to connect.

Tell dentists what’s going on →

Free · Anonymous · About 5–8 minutes