I recently started Methadone maintenance as part of my addiction recovery program. My teeth are in terrible shape and I need a lot of work done, but I’ve had some bad experiences at the dentist. The last time I went to get work done, the dentist would not give me anything at all for the pain after he saw on my chart that I was on Methadone. Even after I gave him all the contact information for the clinic and asked him to call and talk to my counselor and the clinic doctor about it, he refused to make the call. I wound up leaving without getting any of the work done. Things have gotten a lot worse since then, and I know I can’t put this off much longer.
How should I go about finding a doctor that will at least make an effort to talk to the doctor and counselor? I am nervous enough about going to the dentist, and afraid of pain. I am in a lot of pain right now, and can’t stand the thought of it being worse during and after treatment. I need at least two root canal treatments and there is just no way I am getting that done without pain medication. I also have gum disease that my doctor says requires immediate and aggressive treatment.
Anything you can do to help me would be much appreciated.
Valerie in Sacramento
Dear Valerie,
Most dentists and medical doctors have a healthy respect for the Drug Enforcement Administration, and are very cautious about doing anything that could cause them to undergo an investigation.
One place to start might be the clinic itself. They may have a list of medical and dental professionals that are sympathetic and well educated in working with the clinic’s clientele.
You might also look around your area for a sedation dentist. Dentists who are practiced in sedation dentistry will be more well-informed on legalities involving pain control medication. It may take several phone calls, but you should be able to locate a compassionate and knowledgeable dentist who will help you.
Best of luck to you in this new phase of your life.
This blog brought to you as a courtesy by the office of York PA cosmetic dentist Dr. Currie.