Dental treatment under a general delays

[snowmash]

I asked if they could try extractions without putting me under, or with conscious sedation. Unfortunately the consultant said no (I almost had the StR convinced ).

Some of my teeth have needed pulling for 5+ years (I keep moving into different PCTs unfortunately, and can't get private treatment).

I was just wondering if anyone else has good ideas about how to keep yourself going during the (cough) 18 month wait? (Before anyone jumps on me, I know that people with cancer and children take priority for good reason).

I would ask for ideas on how to find someone willing to just extract some of them, but find fillings are difficult enough.

do you need general because they all have to be done at once?

would the dentist not do one at a time over the 18 months?????

18 months is technically the longest wait you have on an NHS list for treatment. My last PCT managed three years (and then I moved house).

I need a general because I don't sit still enough for a dentist to try with me awake (hence asking if they'd try conscious sedation, but no dice unfortunately).

Posting on mumsnet obviously works. Outpatient appointment has finally come through (although it may be via PFI).