I am embarrassed by my smile, but have an extremely hard time with dental work. Each appointment is a nightmare. Though I am not allergic to Novocain (I know this because I got tested to check) it just doesn’t work for me. I have yet to meet a dentist who can get me numb. This has made getting the work I need done impossible for me. I’m thinking my only option is to just go ahead and remove all my teeth and then get a fake smile with dental implants. My question is can I do that with anesthesia?
Patti
Dear Patti,
I am very glad you wrote. I do not think you are going to have to do anything as drastic as remove all your teeth and replace them with dental implants. I’m pretty sure I can save not only your teeth, but also your bank account. There is a biological reason why Novocain has not been working for you AND there is a solution.
Many dentists do not realize that when someone has dental anxiety, which you are bound to have after all those horrifying appointments, it has the effect of burning off the numbing medication before it has ample opportunity to work. This is why your dentists have had difficulty geeting you numb.
The solution for this is to see a sedation dentist. If you use something like oral conscious sedation, then you will be completely relaxed for your procedure. This will enable your numbing medication to do its job. You will be so relaxed, that you are likely to sleep through your appointment. Some people even call it sleep dentistry. This will enable you to get all that work done you have wanted to and hopefully save your teeth.
Once your teeth are healthy, there are a variety of cosmetic procedures that can help you improve the appearance of your smile. If you just want something simple, like teeth whitening, then any dentist can do it. However, if you’re wanting a complete smile makeover with something like porcelain veneers, that requires some expertise. If you are going to go that direction you will want an AACD accredited dentist. These are the top cosmetic dentists in the country and will create a gorgeous smile for you.
This blog is brought to you by Lexington, KY Dentist Dr. Fred Arnold.