What You Need To Know About Getting Dental Extractions

If your dentist has scheduled you for tooth extractions, you might start feeling a little nervous. This is especially true for anyone who has never had an extraction before or who has not had one in many years. In order to get yourself better prepared for your dental extraction, you will want to learn as much as you can about it. Here is some helpful information to keep in mind:

You Won't Feel Any Pain

Beyond the little bit of a pinch when having the numbing medicine injected near the tooth, you are not going to feel any pain. If you are up for it and your dentist is fine with it, you are able to stay awake during the procedure. You might just feel a little pulling or tugging when the dentist is trying to extract the teeth, but it won't be painful.

You May Have The Option Of Sedation

If you are incredibly nervous about getting any sort of dental work done or you are having all of your teeth extracted, you might want to opt for sedation. This way, you will be in a light slumber while the work is being done. You will not have to deal with intense nervousness while the work is done or deal with how uncomfortable you might become with your mouth held open for so long. If you want sedation dentistry and your dentist is not able to offer that, they can refer you to another dentist who can. Just make sure that you double-check that they also take your dental insurance.

You Can't Smoke For A Few Days

While your dentist will most likely suggest that you stop smoking altogether, it is very important that you at least refrain from smoking for several days after the extractions are done. The sucking or inhaling from smoking can cause dry sockets where your teeth once were, and this is incredibly painful. You need to wait a few days for the extraction site to heal.

Eat Soft Foods For A While

Until the sore spots are no longer sore, you will probably need to stick with soft foods. Some options include mashed potatoes, applesauce, pudding, Jell-O, and broth. It can get a little boring, but if you try eating something tough a little too soon, you could end up in a lot of pain.

If you have any more concerns about your upcoming appointment for extractions, reach out to your dentist.