For many patients, their fear of tooth extractions is really the fear of the unknown. You may be imagining a more intense, painful scenario than you are actually going to experience. To prevent yourself from doing this, become informed about your procedure before it begins.
It's natural to feel a little anxious about having a tooth extraction. Try these tips to overcome your anxiety: Remember that you'll feel better once that tooth is gone: If you're feeling nervous about your procedure, focus on the thought that you'll be better off after your treatment.
Relax, meditate and don't think much – Practice meditation techniques or yoga in the morning before your appointment. Avoid strenuous physical activities prior to extraction. Block out all thoughts of what the dentist will do and the scary instruments which he may use.
Many of the front teeth are round, so they can be removed without damaging bone quite easily. However most of your back teeth have two or three roots and cannot just be “pulled out” without breaking something.
Deep, slow breathing can be helpful. Try inhaling deeply through your nose, then counting to five in your head. Exhale slowly through your mouth, counting to eight as you do so. Repeat this cycle a few times, or as often as needed to remain calm.
After the procedure, one should expect some discomfort, swelling, sensitivity, or pain. The pain experienced is usually due to the underlying gum inflammation. What is considered “normal” pain is likely to last for about three days post-extraction.
How long does a tooth extraction take? This procedure is quicker than you'd think. The entire process of pulling a tooth—from administering the anesthetic to applying stitches if needed—typically takes anywhere between 20-40 minutes. That said, the procedure will take longer if you require more than one tooth pulled.
After having a tooth extracted - especially molars - you may feel some pain and discomfort for around 3-7 days after it has been removed. However, if you still have intense pain near the area immediately after 5 days, book an appointment to see your dentist.
Everything You Need to Know About Tooth Extractions and Pain
Not necessarily. While the extraction may hurt if you are under the effects of nitrous oxide, you should not be in excruciating pain. For more serious extractions, you will need stronger painkillers such as oral sedatives or anesthesia.
All dentists are qualified to perform emergency tooth extractions if and when necessary. Tooth extractions are a relatively common oral surgical procedure and may be necessary if your tooth is severely damaged or infected.
Many people find relief with over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen or naproxen. These painkillers can help reduce inflammation as well as alleviate pain. If you experience severe pain following a tooth extraction, your dentist might prescribe stronger painkillers.
General anesthesia is the only true sleep dentistry option. Under general anesthesia, patients remain completely unconscious throughout the treatment process. This ensures total comfort and relaxation, during even the most advanced oral surgery.
Oral hygiene must be excellent prior to surgery. Therefore, way in advance of the surgery, the patient should brush, floss, and care for their teeth and gums twice a day. On the morning of surgery, brush and rinse with mouthwash or water.
Speak up
Tell your dentist about your anxiety. When you book your appointment, tell the receptionist you're nervous about dental visits. Remind the dentist and dental staff about your anxiety when you arrive. Share any bad experiences you may have had in the past, and ask for suggestions on coping strategies.
Anti-Anxiety Pills
The most commonly prescribed dental related drugs that treat anxiety belong to the “benzodiazepine” family. Drugs such as Valium, Halcion, Xanax, or Ativan. These drugs decrease anxiety by binding and toning down activity within “fear” receptors in the brain.
It is recommended you do not have anything to eat or drink (except for water) at least 5 hours before your scheduled appointment. This will prevent food debris from lodging in your teeth, which can irritate you during a cleaning and give your dentist a little extra work to do.
Your dentist may prescribe anti-anxiety drugs, such as diazepam (Valium), that you can take one hour before a scheduled dental visit. Your dentist may also recommend conscious sedation, such as nitrous oxide (or “laughing gas”), which can help calm nerves.
The dentist will open the gums to access the teeth. The extraction isn't a painful process, but you may experience pain and soreness after the procedure. These symptoms should subside within 2-5 days, but it is crucial to follow all post-extraction care instructions provided by your dentist.
Your body has special pain receptors that respond when they detect damage or trauma. A tooth extraction involves irritating your gums and the underlying bone. Although your Tempe dentist is careful to avoid causing unnecessary trauma, your body recognizes this as an injury.
Some patients who undergo tooth extraction may want to take a day off from work just to make sure they can rest well and address the immediate side effects of the procedure. Other patients may not need to spend a day recovering and will be able to return to work the next day so long as it is not physically demanding.