Although losing a tooth as an adult isn’t as exciting as it was when you were a child, it doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With proper preparation, tooth extractions in Franklin, NC, don’t have to be as uncomfortable as you initially thought they would be. We’re here to help you get ready for your upcoming procedure.
How to Prepare for Your Tooth Extraction
Don’t Hesitate to Ask Questions
Your dentist wants to make sure that you fully understand the procedure prior to your appointment. Since they’ll be operating on your mouth, you should know all the details involved with the treatment. Keep in mind that no question is too silly for your dental care provider, so don’t hesitate to ask.
Share Your Complete Medical History
Your dentist has to know about your complete medical history before they perform a tooth extraction procedure. For this reason, you shouldn’t leave any details out while you fill them in with the important details related to your oral and overall health.
Your dentist should be aware of certain conditions that can make you more vulnerable to infections. These conditions include the following:
· Congenital heart defect
· Artificial joint replacements
· Placement of any mechanical or bio heart valves
· Bacterial endocarditis
· Impaired immune system
· Liver disease
To avoid possible undesirable drug interactions, it’s best to include a complete list of your current medications. Since blood thinners will increase your risk of bleeding during the procedure and prolong healing after the treatment, your dentist may advise you to stop taking them prior to your appointment.
Talk to Your Insurance Provider
Nobody wants to deal with insurance claims and unexpected bills that you’re supposed to pay. If you don’t want any surprises, make sure that your insurance provider covers the procedure. To confirm with your insurance company that your treatment will be covered, it’s best to request a written description of the surgical procedure.
Don’t Eat Anything Before Your Appointment
If you don’t have any medical condition that doesn’t allow you to fast, your dentist may advise you to avoid eating anything for up to 12 hours prior to your appointment. This helps prevent nausea during and after your treatment.
Don’t Smoke
You won’t be allowed to smoke for 12 hours before your procedure and 24 hours after. Using tobacco products after your treatment is completed slows down the healing process and increases your risk for a serious condition called “dry socket.”
Arrange Your Transportation and Care
It’s extremely important to ask a family member or a friend to drive you home after your appointment. If this isn’t possible, consider hiring a taxi or other car service. Once you get home, you’ll also be advised to eat soft foods for a couple of days following your surgery.
Wear Comfortable Clothes
Since you’ll be sitting in the dentist’s chair for a while, you’ll want to wear loose-fitting and comfortable clothing. Also, you won’t need to wear make-up, jewelry, perfumes, and contact lenses. You can use some lip balm if you want to keep your lips moisturized.
Do You Need More Information About Tooth Extractions in Franklin, NC?
At Cataloochee Dental Group, we’re focused on giving every patient the highest quality dental care in a comfortable and inviting environment. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.