Preparing for a Tooth Extraction
It’s true, dentists spend a lot of time and effort helping their patients prevent tooth loss. But sometimes, having a tooth pulled is the best way to treat a serious oral health issue.
While the thought of having a tooth extracted may not thrill you, there are plenty of things you can do to prepare for your extraction so you feel more relaxed. Brandon Kang, DDS, and the team at Pacific Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Center in Oakland and San Francisco, California, offer these five tips to help you get ready for your upcoming tooth extraction.
1. Understand why an extraction is recommended
One of the best ways to feel confident about your extraction is to know why Dr. Kang is recommending it in the first place. In nearly all cases, Dr. Kang only recommends extraction when other options, like root canals or fillings, aren’t an option.
Most extractions are performed to address serious infections, severe tooth decay, or traumatic damage to a tooth, like when a tooth is broken off below the gum. Extractions also may be recommended prior to orthodontic treatment when overcrowding is an issue.
2. Learn about tooth replacement
Plenty of people worry about what their smile will look like after an extraction. If that’s driving your anxiety, relax. Dr. Kang offers plenty of “replacement” options, including bridges, dentures, and state-of-the-art dental implants, so you can enjoy a beautiful smile even after your tooth is pulled.
3. Ask about pain management
In addition to local anesthetics, Dr. Kang offers IV sedation and general anesthesia to keep patients relaxed and comfortable. Before your extraction appointment, talk to Dr. Kang about your sedation options. He recommends the option that’s best suited for your extraction and medical history.
4. Get ready for recovery
After your extraction, it’s normal to have some discomfort and swelling. Having ice packs on hand can help minimize swelling and keep your jaw comfortable. Other tips include:
- Take it easy on your extraction day
- Use pillows to keep your head slightly elevated
- Consume only soft foods for at least 24 hours
- Don’t use straws (suction dislodges the protective clot)
- Use pain medication as prescribed
- Don’t smoke
- Don’t rinse your mouth vigorously until the incision heals
If you have sedation or anesthesia, you should also arrange for someone to drive you home, and you shouldn’t drive until the day after your extraction.
5. Follow Dr. Kang’s instructions
Dr. Kang gives you a list of instructions to follow during the initial recovery phase, including the best way to clean around your extraction site without dislodging the protective clot. Review your instructions, and if you have any questions, call our office.
You should also call our office if you develop a fever, feel sick to your stomach, or if you start to bleed a lot from the extraction site.
Optimal oral health at every age
Don’t let worries about an upcoming tooth extraction overwhelm your thoughts. Dr. Kang is skilled in the most advanced pain management techniques to make sure you stay calm and comfortable during and after your extraction.
To learn more about tooth extraction and pain management options, book an appointment today online or over the phone at our office most convenient to you.