I haven’t been to the dentist in a while. I’ve been blaming it on my osteoporosis, which is a true factor. But, probably a larger factor is my anxiety. I’ve been having some problems with my teeth as a result of me avoiding the dental chair. However, I wondered if my “excuse” is valid. Should it harm me to take the sedation? I can’t risk a fall.

Morgan

Dear Morgan,

Don’t feel too guilty about making excuses for not going to the dentist. You’re not alone in that. Many people have some form of mild anxiety. Fortunately, there are patients who cater to patients with dental anxiety. Many of those dentists are also sedation dentists. It’s almost always perfectly safe for someone with osteoporosis to use sedation.

Preparing for Dental Sedation

The dentist will meet with you beforehand to go over all of your medication. He’ll likely want to talk with your medical doctors to go over your status ahead of time.

Everyone who uses a form of dental sedation, known as oral conscious sedation, will need someone to drive them to and from their appointment. They won’t be lucid enough to drive. You’re also expected to have someone stay with you until the medication wears off as well.

This will be especially true for you because of the danger to your bones if you fall. You’ll want someone reliable and attentive who understands the importance of making sure you don’t have to get up unnecessarily.

I’d plan to spend the day on the couch binge watching your favorite show or reading. Let someone else serve you that day.

Benefits of Sedation Dental Care

You mentioned you have been avoiding the dentist for a while, which likely means you have a lot of work needing to be done. You’ll be glad to know this type of sedation allows the dentist to get a lot more work done at each appointment.

This will reduce the number of times you’ll need to go in, getting your oral health in shape much faster.

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