I’m in a lot of pain. I’m terrified of the dentist. Everyone tells me sedation is the way to go, but I’m equally afraid of sedation. I don’t like the idea of being loopy alone in a room with someone I don’t know and no real way to take care of myself.
Is there a way to get sedation and feel safe?
Name Withheld
Well, I have some suggestions. First, I would talk to your friends about what dentist they love. Then, I would go and talk to those dentists about your concerns.
With oral conscious sedation dentistry, you are “loopy” and it is likely that you will not remember the appointment, but your defense mechanisms are still in tact. However, I think you are saying that you’re uncomfortable not being in complete control of your faculties with someone you’re not familiar with.
In talking to the dentists, you may find one who will understand your fears. It is possible that they will let you bring a friend with you to the operatory. Though, please understand each dentist has their own policy regarding that.
This blog is brought to you by Grosse Pointe Woods Dentist Dr. Theodore Hadgis.