Numbing for a regular cleaning?

[sunnylikesunshine90]

I have several teeth that are super sensitive towards the gum line (One specifically is on the upper right and is the anchor tooth for a bridge, but I don't think the bridge has ever met the gumline on that side. I'm not entirely sure but it hurts every time a dentist or hygienist goes after it with the pick).

I'm overdue for a cleaning (like 7 months overdue), and since I'm paying a fairly good amount every month for dental insurance, I can't see the point in not using it. However, I'm terrified of the lovely hygienist - who has been awesome so far - hitting one of the sensitive roots and leaving me an emotional mess (which I already normally am as a panic disorder/agoraphobia suffering person). I suppose Nitrous Oxide is an option, but the last time I had it with my dental phobia-inducing dentist, she nearly overdosed me and I came very close to passing out in the chair (was nauseous for awhile and even just thinking about it, I get nauseous again). I'd rather avoid the gas, if at all possible.

Is it possible for me to request that I be numbed for a regular cleaning? I mean, is it even possible to have all four quadrants of my mouth numbed at once? Have any of you tried that before?

 

[LittleLynnie]

My dentist always used to freeze me for cleanings. He would come into the room, administer the freezing and then leave the hygienist to do her work. I would not recommend Nitrous if you're expecting any pain though, because it makes you woozy and half-baked, but as soon as there's any pain, you're 1,000% wide awake and aware again.