Introduction/1st appt in 5 years tomorrow

[lisvarner77]

Hello all! My name is Melissa and I have my first appoinment in 5 years tomorrow. I have a panic disorder so lucky for me I can take a Xanax before I go!

All joking aside, I'm really scared. I had a crown put on about 6 years ago. About 3 1/2 years ago it broke off (molar next to removed wisdom tooth). So this poor tooth (or what was left of it) has been exposed this long. I'm going b/c it finally started to hurt and I don't wnat it to get out of hand. I'll probably just have them pull it. I've had very rough procedures done on me since I was little and I'm over it.

And advice? My 3 1/2 year old has been there and the dentist seems really nice - it's the hygenist I'm afraid of...lol. Thanks all!

 

[brit]

And advice? My 3 1/2 year old has been there and the dentist seems really nice - it's the hygenist I'm afraid of...lol. Thanks all!

You should be ok then. It may be possible to build up the tooth and place a new crown. You should save it if possible. If you find hygiene appointments painful, then ask to be numbed up (works on gums and teeth) or for numbing gels to be applied(works on gums only) more info here:

What happens during a dental cleaning (scale and polish)?

Dental cleanings involve removing plaque (soft, sticky, bacteria infested film) and tartar (calculus) deposits that have built up on the teeth over time. Your teeth are continually bathed in saliva. Your saliva contains calcium and other substances which help strengthen and protect the teeth...

www.dentalfearcentral.org

 

[lisvarner77]

Well, I did it. After some pacing outside the door I went in. I warned tehm that I have panic attacks and that it had been a long time since a check-up so they should eb prepared. After the x-rays the dentist came in and talked to me. I have 5 cavities and need 2 crowns. The two teeth that need crowns might need root canals I don't know what I'm scared of more now, getting them done or how much it's going to cost. We have insurance but anything 'major' is only covered at 60%. Ugh. Anway, I feel proud of myself that I conquered a pretty major fear.