I’m an army vet. I served five tours. I don’t want to go into detail but I’ve got PTSD due to several things. Unfortunately, the last time I was in a dental chair we were attacked. I’ve got a pretty bad toothache and my face is swelling up a bit. I know I need a dentist but I’m worried about how I’ll respond in the chair. Also, I’m not sure if any of my PTSD meds will interfere with treatment.
Cory N.
Dear Cory,
I want to thank you for all the sacrifices you’ve made to keep your country safe. I know you’re still sacrificing too, so please know it doesn’t go unappreciated. I understand your concern about the dental chair. Even patients who haven’t been through what you have struggle in the dental chair.
Given your situation, I’d recommend dental sedation. This will completely relax you in the dental chair and won’t interfere with your PTSD medication, though it is important to tell whichever dentist you go to all the medication you’re on. That way if the sedation meds they use could interfere, they’d be sure to use a different one for you.
Avoiding Dental Emergencies Using Dental Sedation
With your face starting to swell, it likely means you have a dental infection. Don’t put this off. In fact, if you don’t have a dentist call an emergency dentist and ask if they do oral conscious sedation. What you don’t want is for this infection to spread to your brain or heart, both of which are close to your jaw. It will become life-threatening very quickly.
One thing to be aware of is this medicine is strong. While you can stay awake if you want to, most patients sleep through the procedure. Because of its strength, you will need someone to drive you to and from your appointment. You’ll be a little loopy.
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