I need a lot of dental treatment, and I have a problem. I am in treatment for drug addiction, and when I told my regular dentist this, she refused to give me any pain medication during treatment. We were supposed to do two root canal treatments, and I couldn’t even make it through one whole procedure. I had to have her stop, and though she seemed sincerely sorry, she refused to give me any kind of medication.

What should I do? I have to get these root canals done, and I am pretty sure I also need to decide if I want dental implants, but for sure that is off the table if I can’t find a dentist who will sedate me. I’ve read about the procedure, and no way can I have those root forms implanted without meds.

I appreciate any pointers you can give me. I am trying to turn my life around, and this needs to be done.

Marcus from New England

Dear Marcus,

You need to find a sedation dentist, a dentist who is trained in how to treat pain and anxiety during dental treatment. A dentist who has undergone training in sedation dentistry will understand how to best work with your treatment plan. The dentist who is overseeing your treatment plan might be an excellent resource to point you toward a dentist that will work with you.

Post courtesy of Dr. Malone, Lafayette Louisiana cosmetic dentist.

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