[KnockedOutMom]

I have had 3 trips to the dentist in the last 2 months, 2 of which are for cavities which I haven't had since I was a kid.

Is it just me or do they really knock others back too?

I mean the drilling and everything really throws me for a loop, I can barely stand afterwards.

How to you survive through them? I really don't want to destroy my teeth by not going.

[Mark in Idaho]

I recommend you plan on rest time after the dental visit. Plus, the chair may put strain on your neck so icing it after would be helpful. Any anesthesia, nitrous oxide (laughing gas), etc. may be a strain on your brain. Unfortunately, the drilling sound will bypass any ear plugs as it transmits through your bones. But, ear plugs may help you to lessen the impact of the other sounds in the office.

[KnockedOutMom]

Originally Posted by Mark in Idaho

I recommend you plan on rest time after the dental visit. Plus, the chair may put strain on your neck so icing it after would be helpful. Any anesthesia, nitrous oxide (laughing gas), etc. may be a strain on your brain. Unfortunately, the drilling sound will bypass any ear plugs as it transmits through your bones. But, ear plugs may help you to lessen the impact of the other sounds in the office.

Yes I notice neck pain, I now know to make sure I visit my chiropractor after a dentist visit.

Over the last 2 years (ironically since my TBI) my teeth are falling apart. As much as I don't like the dentist and having this work done messes with my head I don't really want to just let it go and lose all my teeth.

[Lightrail11]

Originally Posted by KnockedOutMom

How to you survive through them? I really don't want to destroy my teeth by not going.

I practice meditation in the chair, focus on slow deep breathing. I'll concentrate on the feeling of the air moving through my nose, into my chest, and the sensation of the warmer, moister air as it leaves. Takes my mind off what the dentist or hygienist is doing. Any discomfort is noted, ignored, and I go back to the breathing.

[KnockedOutMom]

Originally Posted by Lightrail11

I practice meditation in the chair, focus on slow deep breathing. I'll concentrate on the feeling of the air moving through my nose, into my chest, and the sensation of the warmer, moister air as it leaves. Takes my mind off what the dentist or hygienist is doing. Any discomfort is noted, ignored, and I go back to the breathing.

I tried this last time, but I think the anxiety got the best of me. I will have to try harder next time!

[Lightrail11]

Originally Posted by KnockedOutMom

I tried this last time, but I think the anxiety got the best of me. I will have to try harder next time!

Paradoxically, trying harder is counter productive with meditation. Practice at home. Practice often. Breathe. Thoughts and anxiety will enter. Recognize this and it will leave. Breathe.

There is no perfect meditation. It's just becomes easier and better the more you practice.

Best to you.