Have a Tooth Extraction Appointment Scheduled With a Dentist in Nashville?
Tooth extraction is a standard dental procedure that most people experience during their lifetime. Whether it’s a wisdom tooth you don’t have room for or a tooth that is too decayed to repair, tooth extraction is sometimes the solution to the problem. As a dentist here in Nashville, Dillard Dental Services offers tooth extraction services on both a routine and emergency basis. However, for people who are about to get the tooth extraction, the waiting period can create a lot of anxiety especially if it is your first tooth extraction. One way to handle anxiety felt before tooth extractions is to be familiar with what to expect so you can prepare for it. In this article, we will tell you how exactly you can prepare for a tooth extraction.
Tips For Preparing For A Tooth Extraction (Guide by the top Nashville family dentist)
As one of the top Nashville family dentists, we often get asked by patients is how they can prepare for their tooth extraction. With some preparations, you can have a safe tooth extraction while calming your anxiety to a great extent. Here is how you can prepare for a tooth extraction:
Ask plenty of questions: When you have a tooth extraction scheduled with us, you will be asked to come in for a pre-extraction visit. During this visit, we will inform you about the reason for tooth extraction and any special instructions that might be needed. This visit is also an excellent time to ask questions you have in your mind about the procedure. We are here to help, so feel free to clear up any confusions that you might have about the tooth extraction before the extraction. Knowing the benefits and the actual process of the procedure can have an easier time controlling your anxiety.
Stop eating before the extraction: When you are about to get your tooth removed, you will want to stop eating at least 12 hours before the removal if you are getting your tooth removed under sedation. However, if you are getting your tooth removed under local anesthetic, you will only need to stop eating a few hours before the removal. Talk to Dr. Dillard in our Bellevue / West Nashville office about what the fasting requirements are depending upon the anesthetics you will be under.
Many people think ahead and take ibuprofen or aspirin before their procedure trying to minimize any pain they may have. This is not a good idea as it will cause additional bleeding during your procedure. Don’t worry we’ll advise you of what medications you can take following your procedure to control mild discomfort from your extraction.
Have someone drive you back home: If you are going to be completely sedated during your tooth removal, you will need someone to drive you home after the procedure is done. While anesthesia starts to wear off soon after the procedure, you won’t be in a state to drive yourself home.
Have some groceries on hand that are safe to eat after your procedure. You may find that you’re hungry after your extraction, especially if you’ve been fasting. You will want to be careful not to try and chew anything until all of your numbing has worn off. There is a risk of you accidentally biting your cheeks and lips without knowing it while you are still numb. This can cause painful injuries that can even become infected later complicating your recovery. Milkshakes and smoothies are a delicious favorite to have on hand at home while you recover.
Arrive ahead of time for the removal: We often get patients that arrive just in time or even late for the procedures. While we try to accommodate patients even if they are running late for their appointment, arriving early gives you and us a lot more prep time for the removal. You can complete the necessary paperwork and get comfortable with the clinical setting if you arrive 20 minutes or half an hour before the procedure, making the procedure a lot easier for you.
Think you need a tooth extraction? Just get in touch with us to schedule a consultation.