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Going to the Dentist
Last week, I went to a new dentist, and it didn’t go so well. I can’t really open my mouth at all, so the entire process is a huge pain. We couldn’t get decent x rays, and the cleaning was also difficult. Do you guys have similar issues? If so, have you figured out ways to make the dentist easier?
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9 Replies
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It makes it difficult for me because I can’t transfer from my wheelchair to their examination chair. I really need to find a good dentist.
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Well leaving your wheelchair shouldn’t be necessary as far as I’m concerned. Unless your chair doesn’t recline I guess.
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No, my chair doesn’t recline, but my new one does.
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I have to transfer as well. My chair tilts back, but the office is too small for my chair and the hygienist. Last time I felt like my arm was practically broken during the transfer.
Do they use pediatric x-rays Ryan? It’s still a tight fit, but that’s what we do. Heaven forbid I’d need work done. Sorry, it’s just as much as a struggle for me so no good advice.
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I think it’s a struggle for anyone in our condition. There’s got to be an accessible dentist for us somewhere in our cities, they’re just hidden.
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Fortunately my Mom was able to find an office a few years ago that works with a lot of patients with disabilities. They accept Medicaid, and they allow me to stay in my chair during appointments. I know these types of specialized offices are rare, but if you can find one then great.
And yeah like DeAnn said, pediatric x-rays might be worth asking about. Still, dentist appointments can be a hassle for us. Fingers crossed the next time will go smoother.
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Well I’m not sure if it’s pediatric, but I believe they used the smallest device possible. I’ll be sure to mention that in future appointments. Fortunately, I have never had the transfer issue. That sucks.
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My dentist usually works on me when I’m sitting in my wheelchair, but this is becoming more and more difficult.
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One tip: the OraStretch helps significantly with opening the jaw, although its price is absurd. I stretch daily prior to a dentist visit, then immediately before the procedure. My hygienist says it makes a big difference.
http://www.craniorehab.com/orastretch-press-jaw-motion-rehab.html
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