I am seriously not comfortable with dentists. I haven’t gone in a while, but I have a nasty toothache. I need to do something about it, but I can’t just go to the dentist. If I smoked a couple of joints to relax myself will the dentist treat me?
Name Withheld
Dear Anonymous,
I don’t know what state you’re in, but that could make a difference. In some states medical marijuana is legal. If you have a prescription, the dentist would have to treat you.
However, even if you live in a state where marijuana is illegal, most emergency dentists would treat you anyway. I would give you a couple of precautions though. First, make sure the dentist knows exactly what you’ve taken. Marijuana use before receiving epinephrine can make your heart beat abnormally fast or cause peripheral vasodilation. If your dentist knows you’ve taken some, he or she will give you a different numbing medication.
Second, as long as the dentist doesn’t view you as a threat to others, you’re not likely to get turned in. But, I wouldn’t go to the dentist’s office driving yourself. I don’t know many medical providers whom would be comfortable letting a drug user behind the wheel. But, if you have a ride, there shouldn’t be a problem.
There is an alternative in dealing with dental anxiety. You might want to consider using a dentist who provides dental sedation. Then you could have a completely relaxing, pain-free appointment without self-medicating. It may completely change the way you view dentistry. You might even find yourself a regular visitor.
This blog is brought to you by Dr. Fred Arnold.