Is it acceptable to ask your DENTIST for a comfort break?

[artforartssake]

I have three major dental procedures upcoming and each one is expected to take about one hour (on different days).

However, I know that I won’t be able to sit in a dentist’s chair for that long undergoing an unpleasant procedure without having to go to the toilet at least once, but probably twice. My doctor has diagnosed an overactive bladder and things get worse when I’m nervous or stressed (as I’m sure to be in the dentist’s chair, not having had a major procedure like this for 7 years).

Maybe this is just my imagination but when the dentist pushes the chair back, as they do these days, so that you’re at a 45 degree angle to the floor,  this makes my need for a toilet break even more acute.

So the question is:

Would it be acceptable to ask the dentist – before we start – if I could have a “comfort” break midway? (She’s a lady dentist, although I guess that doesn’t change things much and I’m a guy in my mid-50s) Or how else could I deal with it? My friend has suggested that I tell the dentist that I have a back prob which means that I can’t sit for long periods and rather asking for a break to stretch my legs.

[janeababe]

hi there art 🙂

If you are really embarrassed to ask, you could try a continence aid called a urodome.

A urodome is like a condom that is held in place with a sticking plaster. At the end, is a tubing that allows the urine to flow into the attached bag. The attached bag is strapped to the inner thigh and is not visible under your clothing. Its like a cathedar, but is external.
Most leading chemists stock them, along with other male continence aids(pads/pants) that may be suitable for you to  use for one hour depending on your needs, then you may sit for an hour without stress or worry.

just a thought.

All the best... i have the need to visit a dentist soon too. I havent been for about 5yrs now.

[ashjoma]

Sure - just let them know before hand

there might even be a staff loo for you to duck into quickly.

[happyroo_bunji]

for goodness sake, why be embarassed about something that everyone does?  Its a natural bodily function.

Now if you had constant gas eruptions, yes that is embarassing

[artforartssake]

Thanks for the suggestions. I think it's easier if I just ask isn't it?

I'm not a pub health patient, I pay for everything myself, generally cash or cc on the day so I guess that does give me the "right" to ask for a break, obviously when it's convenient for the dentist