I’ve seen some dentists advertise they “cater to cowards,” but I’m not really sure what that means. I’m not a coward, but I do get really anxious and agitated when I visit the dentist. The last time I went in, I had to have a root canal. It was so bad I haven’t been back in since, and that was five years ago. One thing that really helps me relax is marijuana and I think it would help me get through my dental anxiety. Are any dentists prescribing this now?
Thanks,
Feeling Green
Dear Green,
This may be putting the cart before the horse a little. Let’s break down what you can expect from a dentist who “caters to cowards” and then get into the marijuana aspect after.
Caters to Cowards = Anxiety Relief
Each professional will have his own approach, but in general, a dentist who caters to cowards will address anxiety and do things to create a calm and soothing environment.
Compassion—
Expect the office to be compassionate about your situation and needs, so you’re more relaxed in the office to begin with.
Pain Reduction—
While some dentists may jump ahead with treatment, someone who works with anxious patients will typically administer anesthetic in a way that minimizes discomfort and will wait until you’re totally comfortable before starting.
Sedation—
Many will also use things like nitrous oxide to take the edge off or will offer sedatives to help you get even more relaxed. In the case of nitrous oxide, you’ll be able to drive to and from the appointment because it wears off right away. With some of the stronger oral conscious sedation medications, you’ll need to have someone drive you home and stay with you after because, although you’ll be awake, you’ll be way too relaxed to do much more than talk.
Marijuana Prescriptions are State-By-State
Marijuana is still illegal on a federal level, though the feds have not been intervening as the states have begun setting their own guidelines. There are states, like Maryland, with very marijuana-friendly laws which allow dentists to prescribe it. There are other states which allow specific doctors to prescribe it, but not necessarily dentists. And, there are other states, like Alabama, which have really tight regulations that don’t allow it at all. In this case, it’s not even about who’s allowed to prescribe it—it’s totally illegal to possess.
Visit a Sedation Dentist if You Need Extra Help Relaxing
Sometimes, people hear this news and decide to medicate themselves. That is not advisable because your dentist may not be able to treat you if you come in after consuming something he hasn’t prescribed. After all, he has no way of knowing what you took, how much you took, and whether it’s going to interact with something he might offer you in the office. For that reason, you’re going to want to seek out the help of a dentist who caters to cowards or a sedation dentist who can walk you through all the options he provides. That way, you can get the extra help relaxing if you need it and the dentist can make sure care is being provided in a safe and effective way.
This blog is sponsored by Baton Rouge Dentist Dr. Steven Collins.