I’m new to the area. I start a new job in a few weeks, but moved here early to be completely set up and organized before starting. Now it turns out I need a procedure which will need sedation dentistry. The dentist told me I’d need to bring someone with me to drive me home and spend the day with me. I don’t know ANYONE here yet. Could I just have a taxi take me home? I can just go to bed and stay there until the medicine wears off.
Meredith S. – Seattle
Meredith,
I have empathy for the situation you’re in. It’s hard being in a new place and not knowing anyone. Unfortunately, dental sedation is very strong. The dentist probably won’t be satisfied with a taxi driver for a couple of reasons. One, even if you got home safely, you’re at a fall risk throughout the day. Yes, you can stay in bed, but you’re going to need to drink and go to the bathroom. You won’t be completely coherent or steady on your feet. Someone needs to be there.
Second, you’re in a very vulnerable position. How do you know the taxi driver is safe? He may be a decent human being that sees you into your home safely and leaves no problem. Or, he could be a candidate for a role on an episode of Criminal Minds. It’s not worth the risk.
Depending on the condition you’re being treated for, it’s possible it could be put off until you meet some people. But, some conditions can’t and if you don’t get it dealt with right away you could end up with a dental emergency. Talk to the dentist and see which category you fall into, explaining your situation.
If you have to have the procedure right away then there are a couple of options. If you have family, you could see if one of them would be willing to take a trip to Seattle for the day. The only other thing I can think of is for you to go to a local church of the faith you’re most comfortable with and explain your situation. It’s possible a pastor’s wife or a priest will be able to fill in this need for you. There are many good people in the world.
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