Tooth Extraction Tips: 4 Ways to Stay Relaxed for Your Procedure

Though your dentist will always try to save your teeth if at all possible, sometimes an extraction is necessary. Whether you took a fall and broke your tooth, or you have one with too much decay to be repaired, removing it is the only recourse in certain situations. While it’s natural to feel nervous about having a pearly white pulled, there are a few things you can do to help you through it. Keep reading to learn 4 tips to put you at ease for your extraction.

Tip #1: Ask About Sedation

One of the biggest worries around having a tooth pulled is the possibility of pain. Fortunately, your dentist is incredibly aware of this and doesn’t want you to experience any unnecessary discomfort. They’ll likely numb your mouth first with a local anesthetic, but if you’re concerned that won’t be enough, ask about other sedation options. It’s best to do so in advance of your appointment because some options, like oral sedatives in pill form, need to be taken before you arrive.

Other choices might include:

• Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) that’s administered through a mask that’s placed over your nose for the duration of the procedure.
• Intravenous (IV) sedation that is injected directly into your bloodstream. This is often used for more complicated surgeries and patients with extreme anxiety.

Tip #2: Bring a Friend

Even if they can’t be at your side during the extraction itself, having a friend or family member with you at your appointment can alleviate tension. Having a trusted person with you can help ease your jitters in the waiting room before you ever get to the dentist’s chair. Furthermore, knowing that someone who cares about you will be there to help you afterward can give you some much-needed peace of mind.

Tip #3: Listen to Music

Many patients have reported that listening to music helped them through their tooth extraction. If your dentist doesn’t have a system in place for you to listen to, you can plan to bring your own. Whether loud rock is your jam, or you prefer the soothing tones of meditation sounds, listening to something that puts you at ease helps you stay relaxed. You might even try listening to a chapter of your favorite audiobook or the latest episode of your favorite podcast.  

Tip #4: Practice Breathing

Mindfulness goes a long way towards easing your central nervous system when it’s in fight-or-flight mode. One of the best ways to reduce stress chemicals in your body is to breathe deeply. You can focus on your breathing while your dentist works, to get you through. You can try a simple technique called “box breathing”. This involves inhaling for 4 counts, holding your breath for another 4, exhaling slowly for 4, then holding again to the count of 4 before inhaling. Focusing on your breath can keep you occupied and calm until the extraction is complete.

Try these helpful solutions so that your extraction can go as smoothly as possible for both you and your dentist!

About the Practice

At Anderson Dental Center, patients of all ages benefit from several dental experts who provide a full range of services under one roof, including surgical extractions. With everything all the necessary equipment, you won’t have to worry about external referrals. Our dedicated dentists use the latest techniques and technology to ensure that your procedure is as pain-free as possible. We also offer several forms of sedation so that you can feel comfortable for your entire appointment. You’re welcome to request a consultation on the website or by calling (201) 546-7435.