E-DAY PREPPING
Ok so, you’ve seen your dentist, filled out the paperwork, and scheduled the appointment for your new smile. The next step is getting your teeth extracted! Extractions are a very common outpatient procedure where a patient’s teeth are removed. Typically, this is performed by an oral surgeon or your dentist, depending on the number of teeth that will be extracted. This procedure is usually performed when a patient’s oral health is severely compromised, or in preparation for implants or dentures. We know that extraction day can be pretty unnerving and intimidating so The Smile Store wants you to feel as prepared as possible.
Arranging Transportation prior to your extraction day is so important to ensure that you get home safely. Chances are your oral surgeon will have an anesthesiologist on site to administer general anesthesia, which will leave you unable to drive for 24 hours. While local anesthesia is an option and may not leave you unable to drive a car, you might feel discomfort and may still not want to drive after the procedure. Figuring this out after the procedure will likely be pretty stressful, so finding a reliable and safe ride home before your extractions will give you peace of mind.
Fasting for 8-12 hours before any surgery is typically recommended by your doctor. Since anesthesia can interfere with your natural ability to breathe, you will likely be intubated to help keep your air way open. This is where fasting comes in; solid foods and liquids in the stomach can be inhaled into your lungs, causing asphyxiation, since your breathing will be altered. So make sure you are able to eat before the fasting begins and try scheduling an early appointment to avoid hunger pain! This may sounds scary, but as long as you follow your doctor’s instructions, this procedure is simple and will go smoothly.
Pre Planning Food and meals for after your surgery is also a good idea, since you may not be feeling up for a trip to the grocery store. For a few days after surgery you’ll probably want to stick to soft foods. We suggest stocking up on foods like Jell-O, yogurt, soup, and mashed potatoes. Be sure you’re eating any hot foods at room temperature so that you don’t accidentally burn your mouth, since you may still be numb for a few hours after the procedure. Consider avoiding food with lots of grains because they can get embedded in your sockets and cause infection. Think of this as a good reason to eat ice cream multiple times a day.
Staying Calm before the extractions may be easier said than done, but this is mostly beneficial for you. Listen to your favorite music, watch your favorite movie, read a good book or talk to a close family member or friend. Many people may find that smoking can calm nerves, but it’s temporary since it only relieves nicotine withdrawal and is not good for your health. It is recommended that smokers quit well before their surgery date. Practicing deep breathing can also help relieve anxiety, so take a moment to take a few deep breaths in the waiting room.
With these tips we were able to provide you with, we’re hopeful that this helps you feel more prepared for your upcoming extractions. Once you arrive and check in for your appointment, your only job will be to sit back, relax, and let your oral surgeon take over. Check out our next blog for tips on how to make post extraction recovery more bearable.