Why didn't I think of that?

That's what I said to myself as reported on my story today. Here's what I wish I'd thought of: A panic button that patients can push when patients feel pain at the dentist's office. Now that's a great idea. I don't like going to the dentist but I'm not afraid but I know some people are. A recent survey in Canada found that 400,000 people were so afraid they actually avoid going to the dentist. Recent studies have found a link between gum disease and heart problems and low birth weights.

We intereviewed the only dentist in Dallas that has the panic button. Clint Herzog says patients rarely use it--he calls it a security blanked because it just makes people feelling better knowing that it's there. A patient agreed. She's not afraid of the dentist but she even felt better just knowing she could control potential pain by pushing a button.

This is such a no-brainer--I wish I'd thought of that.