Dentist's praise shows author still craves positive feedback

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 17 Oct, 19:32 · Archive

A columnist realised she thrives on positive feedback after her dentist praised her oral hygiene.

Nat Locke attended her annual dental check-up during the holiday period and prepared carefully, brushing her teeth obsessively and flossing properly. After inspecting her teeth, her dentist declared that she has 'excellent oral hygiene', which left her feeling ten feet tall.

Locke reflects that the experience revealed something about herself: she absolutely thrives on positive feedback. She describes getting 'a real buzz' out of being told she has done something well, and jokes that she could not have felt better unless the dentist had also given her a merit sticker reading 'I Floss Like a Boss'.

Locke notes that this should not have come as a surprise when she looks back on her life. She recalls her first dentist visit at around four years old, when she was so eager to be examined that she opened her mouth as wide as possible even before the dentist had entered the room.

How it is being reported

• Nat Locke: One compliment from my dentist made me realise I’ll do anything for a merit stickerMy dentist recently praised my “excellent oral hygiene” and I felt 10 feet tall. It turns out I still absolutely thrive on positive feedback.The West Australian · 17 Oct, 19:00
• Nat Locke: One compliment from my dentist made me realise I’ll do anything for a merit stickerMy dentist recently praised my “excellent oral hygiene” and I felt 10 feet tall. It turns out I still absolutely thrive on positive feedback.Perth Now · 17 Oct, 19:00

In this story: Nat Locke · DB Dental

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