I recently went to the dentist with an abscess tooth. They gave me antibiotics and said to make an appointment to extract the tooth when I have finished the antibiotics. The problem tho is that I have a lot (and I am probably a bit extreme here) anxiety. My blood pressure always spikes significantly when I'm there. My bp was 179/120 and they told me that if it reads high at my next visit they will not work on me. What can I do to lower it?
I've taken my bp numerous times at home and even when I feel the most stressed and it's always good so I just need a temporary remedy. I asked if I could be prescribed a sedative such as valium like a previous dentist had done but she pretty much sneered at that idea. And for those who may say to just go to another dentist, the issue with that is this is the only one in my area I can afford so I'm pretty much on my own here.
My blood pressure significantly spikes when I go to the dentist?
Question posted by Knich79 on 21 June 2017
Last updated on 22 December 2018 by sandyw323
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4 Answers
Hi my daughter just went thru this. Get a blood pressure kit at Wal-Mart and record your blood pressure for a week 3 times a day. Make an appointment with your regular doctor and explain the dentist/blood pressure problem and show them your daily blood pressure readings.
Then get a note to give to the dentist saying your doctor examined you and you dont have high blood pressure that its anxiety induced. Then give the note to the dentist. Your doctor may also prescribe you something to relax you for the dental procedure. Good luck.
What about calling your primary doctor and ask for the Valium? If you explain what happens they may help.
Hi Knich: I can sympathize with you. I have panic attacks when I have to have a procedure done, such as a root canal, for example. I can't imagine getting it done without having a lorazepam first, and my dentist is good about working with me. I hope you can work it out with your current dentist. I don't know what my blood pressure is because my dentist doesn't take it, but when I anticipate going in for a procedure, my heart rate increases, I get stomach cramps, and extreme anxiety. You are not alone in having this type of anxiety. If you could discuss it calmly with your dentist, maybe the two of you could work something out to prepare you for the procedure.
A dentist takes your blood pressure? Seriously? You must have acted quite the girl. Suck it up up and cop the pain (never use the childbirth argument ever again, ever). Once it's out it's over.
Helpful advise only please...
Actually it's common procedure to have bp taken at dentist. No acting up required and I do just fine tolerating the pain. The issue is my bp which I cannot control and blocks me from having a willing dentist.
Related topics
antibiotics, blood pressure, tooth, blood, pressure
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