I have been avoiding the dentist for years, which has caused me great problems and lots of pain. A friend talked me into trying a sedation dentist. I’m hoping it will work, but I’m also nervous about it. What if it doesn’t work? I’m thinking about taking some cannabis to ensure I’m relaxed. But, I’m afraid if I tell him he won’t do the sedation part. Is it safe to just take it without telling the dentist?
Alex
Dear Alex,
I understand how difficult dental anxiety can be. In fact, one thing I find particularly satisfying is when we can take a patient, such as yourself, who has suffered greatly and helped them get to the point that they are comfortable at the dentist and their oral health care is all caught up.
That being said, please do not take cannabis without informing your dentist. It will have an impact on how he or she will dose your medicine. Adding something without his knowledge can cause severe problems.
In fact, there was recently a case in Arizona where a patient took cannabis without informing his dentist. It resulted in his death. With cannabis, there is an increased risk of your throat spasming, which can lead to it closing up. This is especially a risk if you’re using an anesthesia type of sedation. Had the dentist known, he could have adjusted the treatment plan.
That doesn’t mean that you can’t have dental sedation. You just need to trust your dentist. My suggestion for you would be to have oral conscious sedation. It’s safe and very effective. In fact, most people sleep completely through their dental procedure.
Patients who’ve never been able to go to the dentist find that they are finally able to have stress-free and anxiety-free appointments and catch up on their dental work. You will always be safest telling your dentist everything, including over the counter medications you take.
You’re going to find this changes things completely for you. Then, once you’ve caught up on all that work, you can then shift toward creating the smile of your dreams. Maybe that will be teeth whitening. Maybe something else. It’s up to you. The only important thing is that you’re finally able to get your teeth cared for without the fear you’ve been experiencing.
This blog is brought to you by a compassionate dentist in Kalamzoo, Dr. Susan Dennis.