So I know not many people like the dentist, however, the thought of having to go is causing me to panic. I have a broken tooth in the back that I believe now has exposed nerve and is hurting. The needle doesn't scare me or even drilling. It's the numb feeling in the face, tongue and throat. I hate it. Makes me feel like I can't breath. The feeling of being stuck in that stupid chair with the staff working in my face makes me feel claustrophobic (sp). I suffer from anxiety anyway so I get the racing heart and all the other lovely symptoms that go along with an attack. With that said, getting injected with something that is likely to cause the heart rate to spike isn't my idea of a fun time. Anyone out there have some tips for making it through a dental procedure?
Tell them you have anxiety issues is the number one thing to do. I dont know where you come from, but over here (UK) we have dental hospitals in some cities that can give sedatives to patients with bad anxiety issues. Mostly this occurs for extractions and work that might take a bit longer. They can also give a general anaesthetic if it is deemed more humane.
I have something similar to you, but mine only fires if the back of my throat/tonsils go numb. If that happens I go paranoid and my mental health goes downhill rapidly. My coping mechanisms generally involve me telling the dentist I need a few minutes to calm myself back down. Normally I meditate through it. One thing worse for me than that is an endoscopy. They spray the back of your throat and nose with a numbing agent and that had me completely flip out. Not fun at all.
If its available, pure oxygen and deep slow breaths can often bring down the anxiety fairly quickly. It is more likely to be found in a hospital scenario than a local dentist. If you have a benzo available take some an hour before going to take the edge of the situation.
I wouldn't worry about the heart rate going up. But you do need to get the tooth fixed. Tooth infections can be pretty bad from a medical standpoint.
Hey bri,
I totally understand! I've got to go to the dentist in 2 weeks to get a tooth removed and I'm a bit worried. Last time I had one pulled the lady took over 45 minutes to pull it out and then it got infected...not fun at all!
That's why I'm worried this time around as I dont want the same thing to happen but my back tooth has cracked and I have a wisdom tooth underneath which I think is trying to come through, so it needs to come out.
Wishing you well on your dentist trip! I will be thinking of you!
Cassandra
Hi Bri!! We are sisters I'm extremely scared of the dentist need to be taking in like a child lol. Deep breathing while in there. Like the other girls said I dont know what country your in but some dentist offer nerve relaxers and oxygen. Also if your worried about racy heart because I have that there is a novacane that doesn't have the adrenaline in it. I asked for it every time I go. It's not as strong but works!! Let us know how you do!!
Thank you! I'm in the US. I did a lot for research on the dentist i'm going to and he is apparently very good. Gentle, and understanding of those with anxieties
Thank you! I hope yours goes well too!
Ok so the non epi meds are a thing. Good! I read about them but wasn't sure if it was a common drug that dentists actually do use. I will definitely ask for that. I'm in the US. Where are you?
I'm In the us! Philadelphia. Yes its definitely a thing and most dentist offices have it now. Do you have a steady dentist you use or is this a new dentist. Either way I would call the office ask to speak to the dentist and find out if they use it. Tell them your concerns and you would be more comfortable with it and your anxiety will be less. I truly hate the dentist scared as hell but I'm sure you will get along just fine
Nice! I'm in VA. I'll be calling the office Monday. It's a new dentist. I haven't been in like 8 years. 😔 He comes highly recommended though. So fingers crossed!