I’ve moved to a new city. I don’t know anyone yet and don’t start work for two more months. I’ve come early to get settled. There’s a tooth I’ve needed to be crowned for a while because of teeth grinding, but I keep putting it off. Now an upper tooth has a toothache. I’m going to find a dentist, but I want to get all this work done before I start at my new job. I always use dental sedation for these type of appointments and I know the drill; you need a driver. Because I just moved here, I don’t know anyone. Will they let me take an Uber home, seeing as I’ll have no one to drive me?

Rebecca M.

Dear Rebecca,

You’re in a tough situation. I can see why you’d want to get the work done before starting your job. Plus, with a toothache, you don’t want to put things off and end up with a dental emergency. Those can be life-threatening.

Not knowing someone to take you is the stickler. While an Uber driver could bring you home, your dentist is going to want to know there is someone to stay with you throughout the day. The reason for that, as I’m sure you’ve noticed in the past is you won’t be too steady on your feet for a while. You’re at risk for a fall. The preference is you spend the day resting either in bed or on your sofa.

But, let’s say you find a dentist that’s fine with Uber. You’re not going to be too coherent. Are you willing to trust an Uber driver to help you into your home? Will they even be willing to escort someone who’s medically handicapped? Those are things to consider.

I don’t know if you hold to any particular religious faith, but I’ve often found that if you call a bishop, priest, or rabbi from your area and explain your situation, they’re usually very good at helping you meet people and getting you some assistance in an emergency. This could be considered an emergency situation.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Bonnie Rothwell.