A dental extraction is one procedure most patients would rather avoid. Unfortunately, extractions are typically only recommended in cases where they are essential. Preserving or restoring oral health will have other benefits that ripple throughout your life, making it important to book your appointment when it is advised, without trying to delay the inevitable. Being fully prepared for an upcoming dental procedure is one strategy many patients use to overcome nerves or anxieties about the pending visit. Here are a few tips on how to prepare for dental extractions in Chicago.
Tip #1: Follow All Instructions
In most cases, you may have to wait about a week or so between the date the extraction is advised and the date it is booked. Your dentist will give you a list of instructions to follow in the days before your extraction. These may include things like taking a particular medication, avoiding other medications, and may even include dietary restrictions and lifestyle modifications. Extractions should never be performed on individuals who are in poor health or who have weekend immune systems, so be sure to rebook your appointment if you happen to be ill in the days leading up to the visit.
Tip #2: Don’t Smoke
Avoid smoking the day of your extraction and during your brief recovery period. The smoke can make any existing oral health issues worse and introduces toxins into your mouth at a sensitive time. Cutting back in the short term may be an ideal opportunity quit smoking altogether, but if you must return to smoking, most dentists recommend waiting at least three days. Smoking before hand can increase the risk of infection, and may even cause physical pain.
Tip #3: Ask Questions
Always ask whatever questions you have before the procedure. Knowledge will make the process more comfortable. Your dentist or his or her staff can likely be reached during the day, and may even have an email address for easy access. Having all your questions about dental extractions answered is a great way to feel prepared.
