Having one or two teeth pulled during one session is quite common in the world of dentistry. However, in some cases, the dentist may need to extract multiple teeth all at once, and the thought of that can be quite daunting. But, rest assured, it is a safe and easy process if properly prepared for and treated!
Meeting with your Dentist or Oral Surgeon
The first step, and one of the most important in being prepared, is to meet with your dentist or oral surgeon to develop a plan for the procedure. This plan should include: the timeline of the process, what is going to happen during the procedure, how you can prepare for recovery, and the recovery process. By knowing and understanding these key points, you will be able to undergo the procedure with confidence!
Preparing for Recovery
To prepare for the recovery process, make sure you have the proper tools needed for an easy, speedy recovery. Items such as extra gauze pads or cotton balls may be needed should you experience extra bleeding during the recovery. Additionally, the oral surgeon may instruct you to avoid hard, chewable foods as it can disrupt the wound while healing. Because of this, you’ll want to grab soft, mushy foods the next time you head to the grocery store. Foods such as: jell-o, applesauce, and soup broth are wonderful options.
Preparing for the Procedure
Prior to the procedure, be sure to ask your dentist or oral surgeon if you’ll need to avoid eating or drinking anything the night before the procedure. Your oral surgeon may recommend that you be sedated during the procedure for your own comfort. Dental sedation is completely safe and offers different methods of treatment such as: inhaled minimal sedation, oral sedation, IV moderate sedation, or deep sedation and general anesthesia. Should you choose this option, you will need to arrange for someone to be in charge of transportation as well as in-home care while you recover.
Following the Procedure
Immediately following the procedure, it is crucial that you follow your dentist’s or oral surgeon’s instructions correctly regarding the gauze pads, cleaning the wound, and taking the prescribed medications for pain.
It is recommended that following the procedure you:
- Keep your gauze pad in place for 30 minutes following the surgery. After that time, you may remove and discard the pad.
- Restrict your activities the day of the surgery. By minimizing physical and mental activity throughout the day, you’ll allow your body the proper time to rest and recuperate. Resume normal activity when you feel well and comfortable!
- Take prescribed medication as soon as you begin to feel discomfort. Follow the instructions given by the dentist and pharmacist that administered the medication.
- Utilize ice packs on the sides of your face that the procedure took place. This will minimize swelling.
Be sure to follow up with your dentist or oral surgeon in a timely manner following the procedure. If you experience any abnormalities with the wound, discomfort, or pain, contact your Raleigh dentist immediately. Unfortunately, in some cases, infections can occur if not properly maintained and cleaned, so it’s crucial to get it checked out right away!
Having multiple teeth extracted can be a scary thought, but with a thorough understanding of the process and heavy preparation, you’ll be able to go through this like a champion! Meet with your dentist or oral surgeon to discuss your options and the best plan that fits your needs. Being prepared for a procedure, such as this, can really make a difference! You can contact our office to see if your dental or health insurance plan covers some of the costs of getting a tooth pulled.