Did you know that a majority of teenagers and young adults receive their first prescription opioids from a dentist or oral surgeon? On the surface, you are probably not surprised. After all, what fantastic teen and college years would be complete without the removal of baby teeth, the wonderment of braces, and everyone’s favorite wisdom tooth extractions? Needless to say, in all this chaos, teens and adults will be eager to get rid of that irritating pain, especially with final exams or work stressors hammering the back of their minds. However, while these medications can be helpful, thousands of people are fully aware that opioids can trigger addiction. Here are some tips for talking to your dentist about opioids.
Following Directions Doesn’t Always Help
If you have successfully taken opioids without any problems, then you are fully aware of the notion that following instructions should prevent further problems. Mostly, you would be right. When people take opioids as directed by their dentists, they shouldn’t experience any long-term problems following their surgeries. Remember, opioids are designed to help, not hinder problems (despite the contrary).
However, in about 33% of cases, teenagers can still experience opioid problems later in life, even if they have followed their dentists’ instructions to a tee.
Question for your Dentists
So what is the best way to prevent a future problem? Simply talk to your dentist. Share your concerns and your fears with them, and they will help you find alternatives. Here are some details you should consider sharing:
- Ask about an alternative to opioid painkillers. Sometimes, you can manage pain after wisdom tooth or other forms of routine surgery with other types of medication.
- Tell them about any history of substance use disorders in your family or the possibility of these.
- Give them a list of previous medications and current drugs you are taking.
If your dentist does prescribe opioids for you, though, here are some more questions to consider:
- Get all the details about how to take this medication.
- Ask how soon you can transition from opioids to non-opioids.
- Always follow the directions.
Seeking Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder
Opioid use disorder is easily one of the most terrifying substance use disorders on the planet, mostly because opioid addiction partially stems from a large number of drugs that are legally regulated by the federal government. For decades, our country has suffered beneath the weight of dangerous synthetics and legal painkillers, and millions of Americans have suffered from addiction throughout the 20 years the crisis has been brewing. However, you can make the right decision by taking a stand against your addiction and regaining your health and happiness.
If you are suffering from a severe case of drug addiction, or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of opioid withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
