Dental Health Care Professonals with Inclination for Mentally Ill Patients

[Code_Blue]

Hello! Are there dentist who specializes or have an inclination in handling patients with mental illness?

My reason for asking is that I have hyper gag, combined with anxiety and panic attacks which makes it almost impossible for dentists to work with me. One dentist told me I was the worst patient ever.

I have multiple severe toothaches at the moment that need attention. I survive by taking pain killers like vitamins. In the distant past, I've had all four wisdom teeth extracted while put to sleep on GA. I need something similar to be done now. Any recommendations would be very much appreciated! Thanks!

[jess334]

Hi Code Blue,

I dont know any specific dentists, but many of them can provide you with sedation options. These might not be putting you completely to sleep, but could include a muscle relaxant, a benzodiazepine, or twighlight iv sedation.

Maybe give a few of the larger dentist groups a call as they will likely have a lot of options for you.

If you have private health insurance, also check if they have a specific dental network for you to choose from.

Kind thoughts, Jess

[missep123]

Hi Code Blue,

I'm sorry to hear that one of the dentists said that to you! I think that's completely unfair because every patient comes into a dentist with different needs, conditions and history. I like jess334's mention of perhaps calling larger dentist groups or private health insurance to find someone who is able to cater to your needs.

I hope you find a suitable one! Here for you!

[Code_Blue]

Thank you all for the replies!

I googled 'sedation clinics' like you said and reached out to some of the practices in the area.

Unfortunately I wasnt able to close a deal with any of them because in order to get payment plan, the first requirement is to be "employed". I've been out of work since March because of covid19 and my wife was also reduced to partial work (3days) a week.

I tried the Royal Melbourne Dental Hospital but they only accept patients with concession cards which unfortunately I could not get my hands either having been denied several times by Centrelink.

I'm feeling doomed and hopeless at the moment. The pain is excruciating, i cant get sleep, and im extremely worried about catching covid19 with the current state of my immune system. Worse is I dont take any medications for my anxiety and panic attacks. I stopped seeing my psychiatrist because i cant afford it any longer.

[jess334]

Hi Code Blue

That is terrible.

Have you tried seeing your doctor? They might be able to refer you to a public dental clinic?

At the very least they should be able to give you something for the pain.

Kind thoughts, Jess

[missep123]

Hi Code Blue,

I agree with jess334, it might be a good idea to see your doctor and see if they can refer you anywhere. Being in pain sounds terrible and I really hope that you can get some pain relief!!

[Nurse_Jenn]

Hi Code Blue,

Seeing a GP as Jess334 and missep123 has stated would be a great start. Having so much pain would be really difficult to work through in finding a strategy. Getting some support in getting a plan together to manage both your pain as well start recovery from anxiety and panic is important. A GP may be able to recommend a psychologist where you can work on your anxiety and panic. A GP may also be able to problem solve with you some options for a specific dental referral or specialist. And get you some adequate pain relief.

Worry is normal when you have so many things like job stress, lack of sleep, pain and are living through a global pandemic. Things are so stressful right now that its a really good idea to get some extra support even while you are getting your a plan together. I wonder if you have tried to reach out to a support line like the Beyond Blue Support on 1300 22 4636. You could even try an online treatment program called the Mindspot Clinic that helps with managing stress and worry. It is free and offers a combination of both phone and online support - you can read more about it by going to the website www.mindspot.org.au

I am sending you strength during this difficult time and if you feel up for it, and it helps, please continue to post. We are listening.

Nurse Jenn