I pass out whenever I see a needle. Can you think of anything that could help me. My dentist thinks the needle is all I need because it will numb me, but I can’t get past the idea of the needle itself. I know, I’m a coward, but I don’t know what to do.

Jennie L. – Wisconsin

Jennie,

You are not the only one who has trouble with needles. I even know some dentists who can’t stand them. But, you don’t have to worry. There are dentists who specifically cater to cowards.

Each of them has a different way of treating fearful patients. Some use the wand, for pain free injections. Some use sedation dentistry, such as nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation.

If you current dentist isn’t compassionate about your very legitimate fears, then I would look for a different dentist.

This blog is brought to you by Oklahoma City Dentist Dr. Don Swearingen.