I wonder if you can help me. I’ve been to my dentist’s three times for a root canal. Each time he cannot get me numb. I’ve been in tremendous pain. Do you know anything that can help me?
Amanda – New Mexico
Amanda,
I know exactly what is going on, because I’ve encountered it. When someone has a high level of anxiety it adversely affects the way the numbing agent works. Then, when you’ve already had a negative experience it just makes you that much more terrified for the next appointment. That compounds the problem and again the numbing agent won’t work. There are a couple of possible solutions to this.
For both of them you’ll need to find a sedation dentist. They can give you a relaxant, such as Valium. This will relax you enough to allow your numbing agent to work. You’ll need to take the pill about 30 to 40 minutes before your appointment and you will need someone to drive you there and back again.
Your other option is to get some nitrous oxide. It is a mild gas that will relax you. It isn’t quite as strong as Valium, but you will not need a ride to and from your appointment.
This blog is brought to you Grosse Pointe Woods Dentist Dr. Theodore Hadgis.