I need to have a tricky dental procedure done. My dentist said it will require I take sedation, which is a pill which will sort of make me too sleepy to be on my own. He did say I will need a driver to get me there and back as well as stay with me after the procedure. The problem is I don’t have one. I just moved here when my wisdom teeth became a problem. I took an Uber to my last couple of appointments. I don’t think they’ll stay with me at the dental clinic because that’s probably against the rules. I’m thinking I can just hire someone from Craigslist. Would I have to tell the dentist that’s what I did? I just need someone there, right? I don’t want him to be picky about the pereson.
LeeAnn
Dear LeeAnn,
Things like this always seem to happen at the worst time, don’t they? How stressful it must be for you to have to deal with this on top of moving to a new area. I’m glad that you are trying to come up with a solution. I’m going to steer you in a different direction, though.
I don’t think Craiglist is a safe option for you. There have been too many people attacked or killed through Craigslist. Being on dental sedation makes you especially vulnerable. As you mentioned, the medication you will be given will completely relax you. You’ll be too loopy to drive. You’ll even need someone to stay with you at your home for several hours until the medicine wears off and you are lucid and steady on your feet again.
We often suggest patients plan to stay in bed or on the couch all day binging their favorite shows or reading.
When you are in a vulnerable state is not the time to have a stranger have control of your body and your possessions.
All that being said, you still need the work done on your wisdom teeth. If you leave it untreated you could very likely end up with a dental emergency.
Solutions for Your Dental Sedation Driver
I have a few ideas which I think will serve you better. You don’t have to take any of them, but wanted to make sure you’d thought of these options.
First, do you have a family or friend from your previous residence who could come up for a day or two. The first day they could be your driver and caregiver. The second day you could catch up and have fun together.
If that is not possible, another option is to check with your medical or dental insurance to see if they’d cover medical assistance for a day. Some insurances will cover in-home care.
Another option is community programs which help the elderly or vulnerable during medical situations. Your dentist’s staff may already know of these. Call them to check before you spend hours on unnecessary research.
Finally, I’d look at faith groups. Have you started attending a church or synagogue? I’m sure your spiritual leader would be in a great position to help connect you with someone willing to help a new member or visitor who can be trusted.
I hope this helps. This blog is brought to you by Libertyville Dentist Dr. David Potts.