I don’t know what to do about my dental appointments. Ever since I got pregnant my teeth have been a disaster. I was sick my entire pregnancy which destroyed my teeth. Now every appointment is excruciating and I still need a lot of work. I feel like a total coward, but I don’t think I can get through my next appointment. Is there anything to help people in my situation?

Callie

Dear Callie,

You are certainly not a coward and even if you were, there are dentists who cater to cowards. Don’t beat yourself up too much. Morning sickness plays havoc on teeth. Whenever you threw up, the acids would eat away at your teeth. It is enough to destroy not just the enamel but feed decay.

It’s no surprise you need a lot more work. Plus, factor in the loss of enamel and your teeth are more sensitive.

When your dental appointments have become difficult and you need a lot of work, the easiest solution is to see a sedation dentist. This isn’t a specialty, it’s just a way of knowing that these particular dentists offer sedation, and more than just nitrous oxide. That’s the big difference.

There are Different Levels of Dental Sedation

For mild anxiety, nitrous oxide can be enough. But you mentioned needing a lot of work. It will be easier for you to use the next level of sedation.

Oral Conscious Sedation will completely relax you. It’s just a pill you’ll take, but it is powerful. It also has the added benefit of allowing you to get more work done during each appointment.

The one downfall is you will need someone to drive you to and from your appointment. You’ll be way too relaxed to drive. You’ll also need someone to stay with you after your appointment until you’re completely lucid again.

Talk to a dentist who offers this service. I’m positive it will help you get your work done fear and pain-free.

This blog is brought to you by Kalamazoo Sedation Dentist Dr. Susan Dennis.