One of the reasons I chose my current dentist is because he uses nitrous oxide. Before I scheduled an appointment for an exam I asked if I could receive nitrous if I asked for it and I was told yes. For the past 2 years I have been taking medication that makes my mouth dry and it has led to 3 cavities. I agreed to have the cavities filled with white fillings but I also asked for nitrous. I was immediately told that nitrous isn’t necessary for a filling. There is no doubt in my mind that I need some sort of sedation to get through the appointment. In the past I have tried to get dental procedures without sedation but I couldn’t get through the appointment. I explained this to my dentist and he assured me that his techniques are so good that I won’t feel a thing. Really the pain is not the issue. I just have severe phobia. Should I try to convince Dr. xxxxxxxxx to give me nitrous or should I find a new dentist? Thanks. David W.
David – You can speak with your dentist again regarding your anxiety and past experiences during dental appointments when you didn’t receive sedation. Depending on how the conversation goes, you can decide whether or not you want to remain a patient at that practice, or if you prefer to find a new dentist.
There are many patients whose anxiety level prevents them from having productive dental appointments—even for dental fillings. If your current dentist isn’t agreeable to providing nitrous, you will be able to find a dentist who understands your anxiety and will provide the level of sedation necessary so that you can receive the fillings.
If you decide to look for a new dentist, start by asking for recommendations from friends or family members. When you contact a dentist office, specifically ask if sedation can be provided for dental fillings.
This post is sponsored by Baton Rouge dentist Dr. Steven Collins.