Working on technique!

Today (Jan. 30th), I had another neighbor as my patient. She had mandibular tori which was the first time I had seen this clinically. I had a bit of a hard time with her x-rays since the placement was different due to her tori. I did have to take a retake. :( I am still working on x-rays and am hoping I can start to see improvement soon. Vining was my instructor and he was so kind to come and sit with me and help improve my technique. He taught me some valuable techniques for the LA's using the Nevi. After my patient left Vining pulled me aside and told me that I am too timid and need to just get in there and clean! I am worried about hurting the patient and that holds me back. Vining made a good point though, he said that school is when you can be a little rough and once you get the technique then you can refine it. I am going to take these words to heart and work on my technique and try to put the fear of hurting them aside for a bit.