Are you preparing for tooth extraction? If so, we’re here to help you make the process simpler. Some find tooth extraction preparation a little overwhelming which is why it is best to know all you can before you head to your procedure. There are many reasons that you might need a tooth removed and going in for professional treatment is the best way to do so. If you have any alignment issues(orthodontic) or you are suffering from dental trauma or you might need to have teeth removed to make room for dentures or Impacted wisdom teeth which cause problems like pain, tooth decay, gum disease and also affect other teeth. In such cases, a tooth extraction treatment is better to avoid long-term problems. There is nothing to worry about prior to or post the tooth extraction procedure if you keep the below-mentioned tips in mind.
Ask Questions
If you have any questions regarding the tooth extraction procedure, get all your answers from the dentist during your consultation. Do not hesitate in asking as many questions as you want even if it is something that you think may sound silly.
Follow the Plan
Your dentists might suggest what to do before and after the treatment. The tooth removal process will become smoother by following these instructions. Switch to the soft foods post the treatment to avoid irritation in the extraction site.
Share Medical History
Disclose your medical history to your dentist. It is necessary to share all your details before your tooth removal process begins. Be thorough about the information related to:
- Bacterial endocarditis
- Congenital heart defect
- Mechanical or biomechanical heart valves
- Liver disease
- Artificial joint replacements
- Impaired immune system
Discussing your medical history with the dentist will help prevent any complications.
Anesthesia and Painkillers
You are likely to receive anesthesia or sedation while undergoing treatment. Make sure to ask them about the substances involved in it. The substances used for pain management with dental extraction are important to know as some people are well aware of which forms of sedation and anesthesia work well for their bodies. If you state your medical history clearly or have undergone anesthesia before the dentist will prepare a risk-free strategy for your treatment. Painkillers are also an effective solution against this, but they can be addictive so it is advisable to go for non-narcotic substances. If you have any particular preferences about painkillers then tell your dentist.
Avoid eating before surgery
Losing a tooth may sound scary but once the procedure is done, you’ll have more comfort. Avoid eating anything 12 hours prior to the surgery if you are getting an extraction under general anesthesia to prevent nausea during the procedure. If you are having a local anesthetic, you may need not fast, but discuss with your dentist before the treatment. Also, avoid smoking after the procedure as it can slow down the healing process and place greater risk on developing a dry socket which can have serious consequences.
How to dress?
Dress comfortably and avoid wearing heavy clothes. Dental providers advise wearing light garments like short-sleeved shirts. Avoid wearing things like jewelry, contact lenses, cosmetics, perfumes and body sprays.
Understand the post-surgery care
Healing is part of tooth extraction aftercare. Take it easy for one or two days after the procedure. Follow safety protocols like avoiding straws for drinking, rinsing your mouth, and chewing hard foods to prevent dry sockets. The other things to follow are:
- Take painkillers only if prescribed
- Keep the gauze pad in position for 30 minutes to an hour
- Add ice packs to the extraction site for not more than 10 minutes on the first day only.
- Rest and restrict your routine for 3-4 days.
- Rinse your mouth with warm water adding a half teaspoon of salt to it the following day.
- Do not smoke for at least 24 hours.
Insurance
Understand the insurance policy before the procedure. Talk to your insurance provider to know what portion of the procedure will be covered. One more thing to consider is to recover the insurance claims and unexpected bills which you are responsible to pay. If needed seek a written description of the procedure along with ADA codes to get an assurance that your treatment will be covered.
Arrange Transportation
We recommend asking any of your friends, family members, or consider taking a cab ride after extraction.
These are some of the tips that can make tooth extraction easier and less stressful. If you’re looking for tooth extraction in Danville, VA, make sure you get in touch with us and we will help you get through this process as conveniently as possible. Call us today at (434) 799 0120!
