Those Awful Dental Visits

Actually, my dentist is good about telling me to signal if I need to cough. Just not good yet regarding the option of not being layed back so far. I agree about that final pain of paying the bill. Unfortunately, that part just can't be avoided. Sigh!

I am a retired hygienists new to bronchiectasis.
I just went to a new practice in our winter location in Az. I explained to the dentist, hygienist and endodontist, ( I needed a root canal). None of them knew about BE. Neither did I until I was diagnosed. They were very receptive to accommodating me.
I used to let my patients hold the suction during their cleaning appointments and used it whenever they needed. Sometimes the smallest amount of having control in the chair makes a difference. Some patients even asked to use the water spray. Kids got a big kick out of all this hands on and turned them into great patients. Some people just need a mild anti anxiety med to take the edge off. Ask your MD.
Most people in the profession know that the majority of people have anxiety in the chair. I always told my patients to make sure they were comfortable with each clinician. Ask to see someone else in the office or change practices. It is better to lose you as a patient then you stop going to the dentist because we want you to keep up with your oral health.
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Find someone you are confident and comfortable with.

@zscline In addition to all the great suggestions you have gotten here, I would like to remind you that good oral hygiene and dental care are critical to your health. Infections in your mouth and teeth can seriously affect your overall health, even leading to heart disease.
My ID doc was very clear about not using MAC or bronchiectasis as an excuse to avoid the dentist. He said, "this is one of those situations where the benefits of good care outweigh the risk of more infection." He then advised to ask for water in a cup or bottle for rinsing.
Sue

Good advice, in general, to share. In my case, throughout my 70+ years, I have always attempted to follow all of the guidelines for good dental hygiene and care but have had to deal with quite a bit of dental work, none the less. Luck of the draw, I guess, and one accident. Though I have gotten to where I dread my dental appointments because of the added stress of BE, I would never skip them. I do hope to come to a better understanding with my dentist so that the compromises are not all on my part. This had only gotten to such a serious level in the last couple of years.

Very helpful input. Thank you so much. It definitely is the lack of control and total vulnerability that is so unnerving for me. I've had a lot of dental work over my lifetime due to one accident and now, because of crowns needing to be replaced. It never used to bother me much, but the laying back now automatically causes the cough response and sometimes need to expel the junk. Then, too, the new device my dentist now uses that forces my mouth to stay wide open causes major anxiety. I fear that I won't be able to swallow or what if I have to cough. I think I really do need to ask about some sort of calming medication. Hopefully, my insurance will help to cover the cost. Thanks again for your input!

I have severe reflux along with MAC ( although I have no cough from MAC). I explained to my dentist my situation and they work with me. They only put me back a little and work on me that way. I can relate to your fear.

I have my first appointment since my diagnosis in a couple of weeks. Can I ask which articles you gave your dentist/hygienist?

I began treatment for MAC 1 year ago and when I go the dentist for a cleaning, etc. I always tell them not to lean me all the way back because I will start coughing. Also, I rinse with my own bottled water and they completely understand. If they don't then find a dentist that does.

Sure hope that my post hasn't scared you. I just seem to have a lot of dental work. I always have, even with trying to take good care of my teeth.

I simply copied out a very short summary of what BE involves. I think I copied the Mayo Clinic info. or maybe just Googled it.

Good luck with your appointment. I think that the calmer you are able to stay, the better. Just try to relax, but do let your dentist know what you are dealing with.

I think that I have to speak up a little more strongly about not being tipped back so far. I know that it inconveniences them, but if not too much, it sure would be helpful. Thanks!