Needing a tooth extracted can be a scary thing to face, and naturally, you might be a little nervous. Fortunately, this treatment is not only very safe, but also nothing to be afraid of. However, if you do find yourself feeling anxious about your upcoming procedure, here are six things you can try to help calm your nerves.
Talk it Out
Feeling anxious or scared about an upcoming tooth extraction is perfectly normal. However, if you find yourself struggling to cope with this fear, it may be helpful to speak to a therapist or counselor in advance. They may be able to assist you in determining exactly what part of the treatment is frightening you and find some ways to overcome it. However, even if they can’t, sometimes just talking about a problem can help you feel less worried about it.
Deep Breathing
Breathing exercises are designed to help you both relax and focus your mind on something other than your problems or surroundings. They’re easy, too. Just think about a peaceful place or happy memory, and take deep, cleansing breaths as you do. This can help distract you during your extraction, and before you know it, it will be over!
Don’t Stress, Fidget!
When you were a child, fidgeting in your seat at school may have been frowned upon, but today’s sensory toys are a positive way to allow you to fidget with your hands and relieve stress and tension by giving you something to focus on other than your fears. Thus, bring along a stress ball, plushie, or fidget toy to your extraction appointment and keep your hands and mind occupied with something other than anxiety.
Play Some Tunes
Playing music through earbuds can rev you up for the day or calm you down. Bring along a fully charged pair to your extraction appointment and distract yourself with soothing sounds to help alleviate your stress and fears during your procedure.
The Buddy System
Bringing a plus one to an extraction appointment may seem odd, but if you have a trusted friend or family member who can come along for moral support, feel free to bring them. Even if they’re waiting for you outside of the treatment room, knowing you’ve got someone there in your corner can often make scary situations a lot easier.
Sedation Dentistry
For patients who need a little more help relaxing during treatment, your oral surgeon is proud to offer sedation dentistry options to assist you. Be sure to discuss your fears with them prior to your extraction appointment, as you may need to pick up an oral sedative from the pharmacy before you arrive. Other options include nitrous oxide and IV sedation, both of which can be administered at the surgeon’s office and are beneficial for varying degrees of anxiety. Your surgeon can discuss these with you and help determine which option is best.
Remember, while it is natural to be worried or scared about an upcoming tooth extraction, the good news is that this is a very common, safe procedure. If you need help feeling calm or comfortable, try the above tips, or speak to your dentist about the benefits of sedation dentistry today.
About Our Practice
At Northern Virginia Oral, Maxillofacial, & Implant Surgery, our team of highly skilled oral surgeons understands that tooth extractions can be scary, which is why we’re proud to offer a variety of sedation options to make this treatment more comfortable. If you are feeling nervous or afraid, don’t let fear prevent you from protecting your smile. Schedule an appointment for your extraction today and let us know if you’d like to learn more about your sedation options. To book your extraction, visit our website or call us at the location most convenient to you.