Dental Care for Recovering Addicts

I am a recovering opiate addict. They have me on methadone maintenance to help. I’ve had a problem with my teeth for a long time and now would like to catch up on my dental care. Unfortunately, the last time I went in for dental care, the dentist refused to give me any pain meds because I am a recovering addict. When he was told me that, I gave him the name of my clinic and told him that I would give him permission to speak to my counselor, but none of that mattered. I already struggle with dental anxiety and I have to say that appointment didn’t go well at all. I was in agony before, during, and after. I want to get my teeth fixed, but I don’t think I can go through that again. Is there a dentist who is willing to work with a recovering addict that is compassionate?

Brant

Dear Brant,

I first want to say how amazing it is that you are doing what you can to get healthy and clean. That shows courage and integrity. In regard to the dentists, what you’re battling is their fear of the Drug Enforcement Administration. Even dentists with integrity don’t want to raise any suspicion because the DEA can make their lives a nightmare.

While many dentists are compassionate, what you need to find is a dentist whose compassion outweighs his concerns about the DEA. They are out there. I would start by doing an internet search for a sedation dentist. These dentists are not only compassionate, but they are also skilled and experienced in working with patients who, like yourself, face dental anxiety.

I know you will find someone. You’ll also find a side benefit if you use oral conscious sedation. Because you are so relaxed, it allows the dentist to get more work done at each appointment. In fact, most patients end up sleeping through their appointment.

This blog is brought to you by Baton Rouge Dentist Dr. Steven Collins.