When you have a severely damaged or decayed tooth or other dental problems, dentists might recommend a tooth extraction. Having the affected tooth or teeth removed can help prevent widespread infection and ease pain or other symptoms. Tooth extractions might also be needed if you have impacted teeth or overcrowding. Knowing how to prepare for a tooth extraction with our Trenton dentist can help you feel more comfortable about this procedure. Keep in mind that tooth extractions are common and safe dental procedures.
Bring Up Any Concerns
Your dentist should fully explain what to expect when you have a tooth extraction done and how to prepare for it. If you have any concerns or questions about this procedure, you should bring them up to your dentist. Having your questions and concerns addressed can help ease your mind, so you’ll feel more relaxed about your upcoming tooth extraction.
Follow Instructions
When you’re having one or more teeth removed, your dentist should provide you with instructions on what to do before coming in for your procedure. You should follow all of these instructions to help ensure that your tooth extraction goes smoothly. For example, your dentist might tell you to avoid eating roughly 12 hours before having this procedure done if you’re going to be under general anesthesia. This helps prevent you from feeling nauseous while having a tooth extraction done and afterwards. If you’re a smoker, you might also need to avoid smoking for a certain amount of time before your procedure. Make sure you know and follow all post-procedure instructions as well to ensure proper healing.
Discuss Your Medical History
It’s important for your dentist to know your medical history before you have a tooth extraction done. This helps ensure that your procedure is done as safely as possible and lowers the risk of complications. Medical issues that might affect your procedure include heart problems, liver problems and immune system problems. Knowing your medical history can also help your dentist determine the right kind of anesthesia to use for your tooth extraction.
Go Over Anesthesia and Sedation Options
Needing a tooth extraction might make you feel nervous. Some dentists offer dental sedation to help patients feel more comfortable with these procedures. If you think you might need sedation, you should discuss your options with your dentist. In most cases, patients having a tooth extraction also need anesthesia to prevent them from feeling anything during the procedure. General anesthesia causes you to be unconscious during your tooth extraction, while local anesthesia only numbs the area around the affected tooth without causing you to lose consciousness. Talk to your dentist about anesthesia options to make sure you get the best type for your procedure. Keep in mind that having multiple teeth removed, such as impacted wisdom teeth, might require general anesthesia.
Contact Us for an Appointment with Our Trenton Dentist
If you’re experiencing severe tooth pain or other tooth problems, please contact You Make Me Smile Dental Centre to make an appointment. Our dental team can make sure a tooth extraction is the proper treatment needed and provide you with additional information on preparing for it.