I have an upper left molar that cracked. The tooth has had 4 fillings over the past 15 years or so, but now it is just shot. On my last dental cleaning appointment which was 2 years ago my dentist told me that the tooth looked weak. 2 days ago while I was eating an apple, I heard and felt the tooth crack. I know that I have to call the dentist. This time a filling won’t do it and I know I will need a cap. I have been putting off my cleaning appointments because I hate going to the dentist and now I need a cap. In 2012 I was diagnosed with narcolepsy and I am worried that it will conflict with my ability to get sedated at the dentist. Is it possible for a narcoleptic to get sedation from a dentist? Thanks. Micah
Micah – As you know, narcolepsy causes extreme daytime sleepiness, and is often accompanied by cataplexy, or extreme laughter or emotion that can cause physical collapse. Narcolepsy is often treated with prescription medication, including stimulants to keep you awake during the day, as well as sedatives to help you sleep at night.
Before you receive sedation dentistry, your medical and prescription history will be reviewed. Your dentist will ensure that there are no contraindications between your current medication and that used to sedate you during dental procedures. On an individual basis, it is determined which patients are candidates for sedation and which medication and prescription strength can be used to help you relax. If you are a candidate for sedation dentistry, you will be advised on whether or not to take certain medications before your dental appointment. Some patients find that nitrous oxide is sufficient to help them relax.
The June 2014 issue of SciMed Central from the International Journal of Clinical Anesthesiology reports that patients who require medical surgery under general anesthesia have positive outcomes with proper planning and careful screening of your medication. General anesthesia is not used in sedation dentistry, but a mild sedative—nitrous oxide or anti-anxiety medication—is used to help you relax. It too can be administered safely with proper planning, careful screening of your medication, and monitoring during your dental appointment. This care is taken for each patient who receives sedation. If you have narcolepsy, a sedation dentist will work with your medical doctor to determine if you are a candidate for sedation dentistry and to ensure you are correctly and safely treated.
Select a trained and experienced sedation dentist. Be certain to provide your medical and prescription history in its entirety. Your dentist will explain the options to ensure your comfort during your dental procedure.
This post is sponsored by Baton Rouge dentist Dr. Steven Collins.