i've always wondered at that.  they cannot actually expect you to answer, and tend to get annoyed if you try.  it would be different if they only asked rhetorical questions, but i've had them ask stuff like "how's work going?", while they have sharp, pointy objects in my mouth.

as an aside, remember that pipe tobacco is cheaper than cigarettes.  [grin]

That's right. There ought to be a moratorium placed on dentist chatter. The worst ones are the joksters, who expect you to giggle at their inanities. Don't they come with self-awareness at all?

Nicely written piece, Kevin. You caught some moments with incredible precision. Good thing they didn't cover your eyes because they see so much.