Tooth extraction can be a stressful process to undertake. Despite the anxiety that is often associated with tooth extraction, the procedure itself is generally fairly simple. It isn’t unusual for a dentist to perform tooth extractions every day. There are still several steps that you can take to help you prepare for your tooth extraction. These tips can help you to reduce your stress and ensure an easy tooth extraction.
Discuss your Medical History
First and foremost, it is important to ensure that your dentist is aware of your medical history. This can help them determine potential obstacles or conditions that can impact your health. Discussing your medical history with them can help you to protect your health and minimize problems and complications from the tooth extraction.
Be Careful About Eating
Various procedures will require different kinds of preparation. When you are preparing for tooth extraction, it will be important to ensure that you pay attention to what time you eat. This is likely an important thing that you will want to ask your dentist about before your tooth extraction. If they are using local anesthetic, you may or may not be able to eat before your extraction. However, for wisdom tooth removal surgery, it will be essential to avoid eating for 12 hours before the surgery. This will prevent any interference with the anesthetic.
Ask Questions
When you take some time to ask your dentist questions, you will be able to ensure that you are much more knowledgeable about your tooth extraction process. By gaining more knowledge, you will often be able to reduce any anxiety that you may have around the process. Your dentist will also be able to provide you with information about what you need to do to prepare for your tooth extraction.
Check with your Insurance
Consulting with your insurance company before the procedure is often a good idea. This will help to ensure that you can gain more information about what you will be responsible for paying for after the extraction. This is an important step to ensure that you aren’t caught off guard by an unexpected expense that your insurance policy doesn’t cover.
Stop Smoking
While quitting smoking altogether can provide substantial benefits for your oral health, it is absolutely essential to refrain from smoking when you are planning on having a tooth extracted. Don’t smoke for 12 hours before your extraction and for at least 24 hours following the extraction. Not only can smoking lead to serious oral conditions, like oral cancer, but it can also cause a condition called dry socket.
Preparing for your tooth extraction can help you to reduce your stress around the process. It is essential to visit our office regularly for cleanings and other dental services to help protect the condition of your teeth. At Hendersonville Family Dental, we are passionate about providing you with superior dental strategies to protect your smile. To learn more about the importance of regular dental visits, as well as how to prepare for a tooth extraction, contact us at Hendersonville Family Dental today.