Tooth extraction can be a frightening concept, especially for those who have never had a tooth removed before and are not sure what to expect or those who have had a bad experience with extraction in the past. However, there are various things you and your dentist or oral surgeon can do to help mentally prepare you for the extraction experience and make it less daunting and easier to deal with. Here are some things your dentist can do to help alleviate your anxiety.
One of the simplest (and possibly most helpful) things is to get informed about the procedure. Understanding the process before going through with the procedure will take away the factor of the unknown, which is one of the major causes of anxiety in the first place.
Knowing beforehand what you will be dealing with will help you feel a sense of control and empowerment over the situation because you will not be going in blind. Your dentist or oral surgeon should explain to you the whole procedure, including the before and after aspects. They should also give you the time and freedom to ask any questions you may have. They may also have online resources to offer you.
Your dentist should also clarify why they are recommending a tooth extraction instead of another procedure. This will help you be more confident about you and your dentist’s decision to do the extraction.
There are several reasons your dentist may choose to remove your tooth. Your tooth may be damaged beyond repair due to an abscess or extensive decay, making it necessary to remove the tooth to keep the decay from spreading to other parts of your mouth.
An extraction may also be necessary if your tooth is broken below the gum line. Severe gum disease can weaken the bone structure and make your teeth come loose from your jawbone. If a root canal procedure is needed, it can often be better for your overall health to simply extract the tooth so that toxins and bacteria will not be circulating through your body.
It may also be helpful to bring a family member or friend with you to your tooth extraction appointment. While they will not be able to be with you during the procedure, it can help to know that someone is waiting for you and will be there to help you after the procedure is finished. This becomes even more important if you are going to undergo anesthesia for the procedure. You will need someone to take you to the pharmacy for aftercare supplies and drive you home.
One thing to keep in mind is that extractions are usually brief procedures and may even take less time than filling a cavity or placing a crown. The mouth also heals very quickly, with the recovery period for many extractions being only a few days. Also, remember that having a painful tooth extracted will end the pain you have endured.
Request an appointment here: https://www.schmidtfamilydental.com or call Brant W Schmidt DDS, LLC at (504) 265-9578 for an appointment in our Metairie office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Tooth Extraction in Metairie, LA.
An emergency dentist may be necessary. The tissue that makes up your gums does not grow back, so it can be scary in the unlikely event that you get lacerated on your gums. To clarify, a cut that comes from everyday activities such as flossing, brushing your teeth too vigorously, or biting down wrongly on…
Curious about dental crowns? Read on to learn more about this type of restoration. If a dentist determines that you need a dental crown, there are several reasons why they may make that suggestion. A crown is a common dental restoration to cover and protect a tooth with compromised structural integrity. Their natural appearance and…
A smile makeover can completely transform your oral cavity and give you the confidence and self-assurance that you have been seeking. However, you might be a bit nervous after getting your smile makeover: After all, what happens if you ruin the results? The good news is that the effects of a smile makeover are built…
Your teeth are one of the first things that people notice about you, and if you are not confident about your smile, a dental veneer might be on your mind as a possible solution. It is one way to change how a tooth looks, but there are many other options. So, why opt for veneers…
Crowns are a great cosmetic solution for many problems, including discolored, spaced-out, or misaligned teeth.
Everyone’s smile makeover will be different because each patient receives a customized strategy that suits…
Dental veneers are coverings that sit on the front, visible surfaces of the teeth.
Preventive care often gets overlooked as it relates to general dentistry, however, it plays a…
In the unlikely event that you suffer from a significant laceration to the inner mouth,…
Below is a quick overview of Invisalign and why general dentists recommend it for certain…
