Usually, you can count on your dental team to do everything in their power to protect and preserve your natural teeth. However, if you have developed a sharp or persistent toothache or have severely damaged or decayed enamel that can’t be treated, they may have no choice but to perform an emergency extraction and replacement.
Many patients feel nervous about procedures that could hurt, but your provider understands you might be anxious and will do their best to help you remain calm and comfortable. Continue reading to learn 3 tips that might also help you complete your appointment successfully!
Tip #1: Breathe Deeply
Would you be surprised to learn that your body can’t always tell the difference between a real threat and a perceived one? Your fear regarding your extraction can trigger your system’s natural fight, flight, or freeze response, which initiates the release of stress chemicals, such as adrenaline and cortisol, intended to help prepare your body for quick action.
One way to sooth your mind and body is by taking deliberate, slow breaths. This tells your body that the danger has passed and it is safe to reduce stress hormones, slow your heart rate, and lower your blood pressure. It helps reverse the rapid, shallow inhales and exhales triggered by anxiety to provide some calming relief.
Tip #2: Bring Your Earbuds
Plenty of people dread sitting in the dentist’s chair and wish they were anywhere else. If you need a brief, personal escape, you might ask your dentist if you can wear your own earbuds during your appointment.
Listening to the latest episode of your favorite podcast or music that helps ease tension can help distract your mind while you’re sitting in the dentist’s chair. You might even listen to some upbeat tunes to help you feel confident, which can also help reduce your stress levels.
Tip #3: Ask About Sedation
If you’re overly afraid of having a troublesome tooth removed, you might avoid scheduling your potentially smile-saving procedure. Fortunately, many dentists offer multiple options for sedation, so if one doesn’t work for you, you might still benefit from another.
For instance, nitrous oxide (laughing gas) can be administered through a mask that’s placed over your nose while your dentist works and induces a lightweight, sometimes euphoric sensation that reduces your body’s ability to register discomfort. But depending on your circumstances and sensitivity to different medications, your provider might recommend oral conscious (in pill form) or IV sedation, instead.
Most dentists are happy to discuss your concerns before your procedure and may also offer additional solutions to help you feel calm and comfortable enough to proceed!
About the Practice
Patients at Smile Keepers benefit from a team of providers passionate about helping families in Brenham build and maintain beautiful, healthy smiles. Dr. Sumeet Sharma, Dr. Saru Sharma, and Dr. Bansri Mehta take the time to get to know your unique concerns and goals, then use advanced technology to deliver customized services, including tooth extractions, to address them. They also reserve time for same-day emergency visits and offer multiple sedative options for fast relief. You can request an appointment on the website or call (979) 830-5022.