Not to worry, the crown is back in place.

This morning I went to “sick call” at the dental clinic on post. Use of the medical facilities is for military only, but they will see civilians on an “emergency” basis. The woman on the phone at the clinic, a Ms. Kim (Kim and Lee are like Smith and Jones here), was doubtful if a lost crown qualified, but told me to come on down and they would see if the dentist would have a look. Once there I filled out some paperwork and got in the queue. There was an irate Colonel who had been waiting for 45 minutes and another soldier ahead of me, plus I knew any walk-in military would have preference. So I asked for a list of dentists on the economy. Ms. Kim was even kind enough to call and help me make an appointment with Dr. Choi.

I must say, it was not a bad experience. A warm greeting (although Koreans seem to struggle with McCrarey, too many “r’s” too close together). Filled out the typical forms, and then the receptionist took my picture. It seemed like standard procedure, but I don’t know what the point of that was. Then it was off to the dental chair. One difference I noticed was that the dentists I am use to have private treatment rooms. Here the chairs were in an open area. It is a little degrading under the best circumstances to lie there all vulnerable with your mouth wide open, but seeing as how I was the last patient for the day I had the place to myself.

Dr. Choi came in and he was a very pleasant individual (nearly all the Koreans I have met here are). He spoke pretty good English, but as he looked at my forms he said I don’t understand what you do (I had put Human Resources as my occupation). I tried to explain but I am not sure he got it. I know he couldn’t pronounce it (that r thing again). Anyway, he said where did you get this crown made, and I said Virginia. He said it was pretty worn but that he would attempt to glue it back. If it comes off again it needs to be replaced. Anyway, he got it back on in short order, then a Korean lovely did the clean up job. You know you have been away from home too long when you are actually enjoying having female hands scraping excess glue from your teeth. All that for 50,000 Won (about $51.00 at the current lousy exchange rate).

Dr. Choi says it is time for a cleaning, so I will be going back next Friday. Really, it’s all about dental hygeine people. Seriously.