opting out of steroids post bone graft

[katebirch1]

I am having a large bone graft procedure on ten teeth very soon. The oral surgeon has perscribed dexamethasone steroid for 4 days post surgery. He has not warned me of the side effects. I researched it and there are terrible side effects. I do not want to take it. I also have chronic health and auto immune issues. I do not want to discuss this w- the oral surgeon because he is intimidating. I am trying to learn before hand what happens if I opt out of the steroid.

 

[Gordon]

The terrible side effects are mostly due to long term steroid use, 4 days isn't likely to produce much. The chief ones noted are increase in appetite, rarely mood changes and insomnia.

You really need to discuss this with your surgeon though, I get that it's difficult but you need to have a dialogue with them about it!

 

[katebirch1]

Thank you. I am very sensative due to chronic health issues. I know I should be able to talk to the surgeon about it but I fear if I bring it up it will take away my choice in the matter which is scary for me.It is such a difficult situation because it is already difficult for me to go through with the procedure and now I am worried about what if I dont take the steroid. But also worried about what if I do.

 

[LittleLynnie]

I really feel for you because I've always been terrified of steroids. I do like what Gordon says about using for such a short term though. I'm curious though, why steroids are needed with a bone graft? Is that always the case? I might be needing that procedure soon and now will have to worry about steroids too!

 

[Gordon]

I know I should be able to talk to the surgeon about it but I fear if I bring it up it will take away my choice in the matter which is scary for me.

You need to be properly informed in order to make a clear decision, at the end of the day, it's your body, the final decision has to be yours but you need to get a clear explanation of the advantages and disadvantages of the treatment proposed.

If your surgeon isn't prepared to do this then they're asking for a big lawsuit at some future date, seeing as you're in the US