When it comes to getting a tooth removed, it can be something almost no one will want to experience. The thought of it alone can make you wince, but it can be necessary to preserve your oral health from further harm. Regardless, you might still be scared about the procedure. Here are four tips to help you overcome your fears and feel your best during your visit.
1.) Queue Up Some Tunes
Many people tend to find relief when they listen to their favorite music. It can be something else to focus on while your dentist does their work to get rid of the problem. Simply ask your provider if it’s okay to bring headphones, and you can make a playlist that helps you feel your best.
2.) Bring a Small Comfort Item from Home
A bit like the point above, you may be able to take a small item that brings you comfort from home. By having something familiar, you can feel more confident about sitting in the chair. A small blanket, stress ball, or another object are some to consider! Just be sure you talk to your provider about holding it during the procedure to ensure it doesn’t get in the way of a safe treatment.
3.) Do Some Breathing Exercises Beforehand
Your nerves may feel the strongest when you are sitting in the chair itself. When you are, it’ll be very soon that you’ll get your tooth extracted, and that thought can work you up. Instead, find a comfortable position and focus on your breathing. For some, staring at a point in the room or closing your eyes can ground you further.
A simple exercise you can keep in mind for your visit is breathing in for four beats, holding it for four, and letting it out for six. On a biological level, this can signal your body to relax your muscles!
4.) Have a Trusted Person Take You
Well before your visit, you should ask a person you trust to take you. Knowing there is someone by your side (even if they have to stay in the waiting room) can bring you some comfort. This is especially crucial if you are getting dental sedation. Having them drive you to and from can give you one less thing to worry about. Once you’re all done, then they can help you get home, relax, and focus on recovering.
In the end, getting a tooth pulled can be nerve-racking, but try out the tips above. That way, you can overcome your fear and feel your best while you improve your oral health.
About the Practice
At Costello & DeHart Dental Excellence, you benefit from a compassionate team of dentists who look after you and your oral health. We are dedicated to helping the Arlington Heights community throughout their smile’s journey, even if that calls for an extraction. By making sure it’s the right treatment for you first, we can then make it an easier procedure with same-day emergency visits and dental sedation.
If you want to know how we can make this service easier for you, schedule an appointment or call our office at (847) 259-1111.