Scared to death of dental dam

[ce ce]

My regular dentist is sending me to a endodontist for a root canal after she put a crown on it because it is very sensitive to hot and cold. Due to the fact that I had a thyroid that was growing very large and was having attacks of not being able to breath before they found it, I have soom very serious panic issues knowing they will put a dam in my mouth etc during this procedure and it scares me to death. Logically I know I will be able to breath but that doesn't help. The endodontist doesn't do any sedation of any kind....and I am unable to find one that does. My original dentist was recommending giving me a valium before the procedure. What do you suggest.
Thank you

 

[norwegianchick]

The dam is not "fixed" in your mouth, it can easily be folded to the side by the dentist if you sign to them that you are uncomfortable. You will not be trapped in it!

Definitely tell the endodontist about your fear before getting started. If they are any good, they should be able to deal with this.

Good luck!

 

[brit]

Most people end up praising the skills of endodontists...they rarely get a bad rap on here..unlike General dentists lol. Rubber dam makes the procedure work better and has the great advantage that it puts a distance between yourself and the treatment.

The Dental Dam

Why do dentists use rubber dams? Can you breathe with a dental dam on? What can you do if you feel claustrophobic? Find out here!

www.dentalfearcentral.org