Starting to hate dentists lately

Not all dentists, and not just dentists. One of my closest college friends is an endodontist and she's great. The endodontists who've done my two root canals, however- far from great.

Yesterday, after two weeks of delays and three rescheduled appointments, the current endo called me and said that there was nothing wrong with my root canal; the cracked tooth is causing my discomfort. Too bad she didnt' tell me *before* my expensive procedure that there was a possibility that it wouldn't stop the pain. Between the partial consultation and the repeated rescheduling, I was able to get a refund, at least.

Today I go back to the dentist. I'm seriously considering switching practices though. The last three times, I've left his office nearly- if not literally- in tears... all over this same tooth. And why is it that my appointments always take longer than an hour, if not almost THREE hours?

I used to actually enjoy going to the dentist. I had a positive sense of well being, almost pride, that I was taking good care of myself and being proactive for my future health. Now, mostly I feel masochistic and like I'm just handing over my credit card while bending over - all the while, still in pain.

Sigh.