Isn’t this hallway exactly what you’d expect at a German dentist’s office?

I haven’t posted in a few days…still working on perfecting this balancing act. That, and I’ve been busy getting my teeth cleaned.

I went to the dentist today, my first appointment with a medical professional since I moved here. I’d been putting it off; I’m really turned off at the prospect of having to call any sort of service provider here. Maybe my fear stems from my repeated phone calls to the Internet and phone providers.

But, I got a recommendation from a friend and decided it was time.

The visit was very similar to a US visit.

Except the hygenist didn’t speak much English. And she used a really, really high-powered water cleaner that left me soaked. And I think she put fluoride on my teeth? She told me not to eat for 20 minutes. At least I think that’s what she said.

The dentist asked if I flossed.

“Yes”

“Every day?”

“Yes”

“Americans are so much better than Germans about flossing.” (side note: I don’t believe that’s actually the case)

I also had to sign something in German about payment. The dentist apologized that he didn’t have it in English, but I just shrugged. If only he knew all the contracts I’ve signed here where I didn’t know a single word.

I’m not sure how insurance works here. I think I have to call them (another dreaded call) and find out. I think I get billed, then I have to submit it to them. I don’t even know if it covers dental cleanings. I have no idea what kind of policy I have!!

I don’t really know a whole lot.

Except my teeth are clean.