"They are very special people"

I have always hated my teeth. I have had problems for as long as I can remember; multiple extractions under general anaesthetic as a child, bad treatment from some awful dentists, a jaw which would dislocate unpredictably, and a mouth that somehow never felt like it was mine.

However, my faith has been restored by some wonderful dentists, including Dr McNab and her team at the Glasgow Dental School.

I was referred to the dental school by my very talented dentist at my practice, who was searching for advice about how to proceed with me.  Solving one problem in my mouth created new problems, due to my peculiar bite, funny jaw and oddly worn teeth. 

Never in a million years did I expect the wonderful care and attention I have received from the Dental School.  At all times, I am treated with great sensitivity, respect and professionalism.  Dr McNab involves me in every aspect of my treatment, to ensure that I understand the problems and the potential solutions, and that I am confident about each step.

It has been an honour to have been introduced to the many members of the team looking after me, including technicians, photographers, radiologists, and the cheery, encouraging reception staff on Floor 6!  It has made me appreciate the work that goes on in the background, for me.  There are many unsung heroes. The dental nurses are wonderful, and I am especially in awe of the telepathy between Cheryl-Anne and Dr McNab in the long sessions working on me. They are very special people.

I have now been attending for 8 months, and I can honestly say that the work done so far has been life-changing. For the first time in my life, I have beautiful front teeth, top and bottom, they are now in alignment, and my jaw no longer dislocates. I was amazed and delighted to see my new, much improved mouth, and I now find myself unable to stop smiling! I have much more confidence and it has made me realise how dreadful I had felt previously about my teeth and my smile.  Friends look at me now and comment  that I look different - apparently I look well, I seem happier, and less stressed. Few realise that it is my new teeth which have made the difference!

I have more work still to come, but I am looking forward to it. It is such a privilege to be treated by such incredible professionals and I really am over the moon to have been given this opportunity.  When Dr McNab first outlined what she planned to do with me, I was a little overwhelmed, as I hadn't expected my problems to be considered significant enough for this amazingly talented, highly educated and experienced, perfectly lovely, professional person to be bothered with me! However, like Dr McNab, I now believe that perhaps I am worth it, after all!

I have nothing but praise for all who are working with me and for me. I am astonished by the high quality of my treatment, and that it is freely and enthusiastically given.  I am so indebted to the NHS, and will forever fight for it to flourish. To the team at the Glasgow Dental School, and especially to Dr McNab and Cheryl-Anne, thank you, thank you, thank you.