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I haven’t been to the dentist in years because of early childhood trauma. I was too difficult for dentists after that and my parents sort of gave up on taking me. As an adult, I continued the tradition. Now I have a tooth that is so decayed I am certain it will have to come out. Is there any way to deal with this without adding to the trauma I have already experienced at the dentist? I’d be willing to have an oral surgeon do it and knock me out completely.
Andrew
Dear Andrew,
I am sorry for the fear you have experienced your entire life because of one dentist. Many adult patients avoid the dentist because of a bad experience in childhood. I don’t know if you have children, but this is why it is so important that you choose their pediatric dentist carefully as well as get them into the dentist early so that they will have a positive experience. Too many parents wait until there is an actual problem before taking them in and all they can remember is that frightening experience.
Despite that, I have some good news for you. There is a way to have anxiety-free as well as pain-free dental appointments. You won’t even need an oral surgeon for your tooth extraction. What you need is a dentist who offers dental sedation. In your case, I would look for someone who specifically uses oral conscious sedation. This is administered by simply taking a pill. However, it is so strong that you will need someone to drive you to and from your dental appointment as well as stay with you for a few hours after your procedure until you are lucid and steady on your feet again. Most people are so relaxed they end up sleeping through their entire appointment.
Not only will this allow you to get your tooth extracted, but you will find it changes your experience at the dentist. You will be able to go back and catch up on all that work you’ve needed but have had too much anxiety to deal with.
Not all dentists are qualified to offer this level of sedation. You want to look for someone who is DOCS certified to know you are in good hands.
This blog is brought to you by Lafayette, LA Dentist Dr. John Theriot.