Trip to dentist much better than trip down Collins

I agree that navigating the Collins Road nightmare in Cedar Rapids is unpleasant - it was even before this construction project created additional bottlenecks. It was most unfortunate, however - and untrue - for the Anderson-Bogert Engineers and Surveyors Inc. representative to compare the process to “ ... going to the dentist.” He continues; “It's not fun. For anyone. But it has to be done.”

Mr. (Jeffrey) Morrow probably said this comment without thinking, and probably meant no harm. Unfortunately, the comparison gained a prominent place in the paper.

This maligns all the dedicated dentists and hygienists in The Gazette reading area. I actually enjoy my visits at RiverRidge Dental. The dentist, hygienists and office staff are professional, personable, and yes, gentle. Thanks to twice-yearly visits, my teeth and gums are in excellent condition. All three of my sons have straight teeth and proper bites from orthodontic care provided by this clinic.

I would much rather receive a fresh and soothing teeth-cleaning than drive through Collins Road congestion!

The vast majority of us health care professionals (I am a registered nurse) strive to deliver our services and treatments in the most pleasant and least painful manner possible. We know the roads we travel on need periodic maintenance and construction - just like healthy teeth do.

I'll even agree that two years of this Collins traffic nightmare (near the intersection of Highway 100) will be worth it - if the green spaces and streetscaping allow walkers, cyclists and wheelchair users to navigate this intersection without having to employ death-defying maneuvers to reach the other side.

Norma Cutsforth

Cedar Rapids