numbing cream to be put on the tooth and gum? I have heard some offices will actually put on a a numbing cream before the novacaine shot. I know I sound like a big ol baby, but I have to have anxiety meds for a cleaning. I just wonder if this is a reasonable request. I am having a crown done soon. Any suggestions will be helpful.

yes, lots of them do it even if you don't ask....

Hey, I would ask for it! Who cares if they think you are a big baby. That numbing cream helps a lot. I always liked the "laughing gas" my old dentist used. Can't get my new dentist give it to me now. I am a Big Baby when it comes to dental work. No matter what they promise there is no such thing as painless dental procedures unless you are under anesthesia and out cold.

Absolutely it is acceptable....you may ask your dentist anything. My dentist puts some topical numbing medication on a long q tip and I hold it in place for a couple of minutes then it's numb for the injection. - it's put on your gum not your tooth. Don't worry about the crown either - I've had 2 root canals and three crowns and I can honestly say my procedures were a piece of cake. Tell your dentist about the anti anxiety meds you take.
You're not a big baby - you just don't like shots - no one does but it's done in a second ... good luck, it will be fine.

Most dentists use a topical numbing medication called Hurricaine. It even tastes good.

Hey...I hear you about needing anxiety meds for a cleaning. I'd rather have a shot and a filling over a cleaning any day. Cleanings are painful sometimes, especially if you have sensitive gums and/or the hygienist is really intense. You can ask the hygienist or dentist for numbing gel for cleanings, too.

They should and usually always do. If they don't it's perfectly acceptable to ask them.