Fear of dentists?

Question

I am getting my wisdom teeth out tomorrow and I am going to be awake through the entire procedure. I know it isn't that big of a deal, but I can't help being afraid. Are there any suggestions of how to at least keep my mind focused on something else? Thanks!

Answer 1

Wisdom teeth are often impacted, meaning they are covered by soft tissue (gums), hard tissue (bone) or both. Just as with any extraction, once teeth are removed, the body starts the process of healing the extraction site, via inflammation (sending cells, nutrients and proteins to the site of the wound) and wound healing (organizing all those things into a matrix and eventually filling in the socket). Unfortunately, inflammation hurts, and that's why there's ibuprofen- over the counter is fine, but usualy your dentist will give you something stronger (by prescription).
If the teeth are in your mouth (erupted), the surgical procedure will go more smoothly (most of the time), than if they are impacted, in which case more gum tissue has to be pushed around, and possibly some bone removed to get the teeth out. One last thing about 3rd molars- they are like the wild cards of molars. They can tilt all different ways, and have roots that twist in different directions. Bottom line- the more hard and soft tissue (bone and gums) that have to be disturbed to remove the tooth, the more complicated the surgery, the more healing there is, and the more pain. Make sure you ask your dentist for pain meds that are appropriate for the level of impaction that the wisdom teeth had.

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http://www.san-diego-dentist.us/san-diego-dental-wisdom-teeth.htm

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Answer 2

Listen, I have had TONS of work done in the last three years, after NOT going for way too long because I was afraid. The best advice I can givce you is to concentrate on your breathing. Just breathe in and out slowly, and use a meditation technique: while you are concentrating on your breaths, think of the word "breathing" over and over and over in your head, this will make you almost fall asleep. If you are going to be awake during the extractions, just be prepared for a lot of pressure as they extract. Most people's teeth dont come easily, and MOST IMPORTANTLY if you feel actual pain or discomfort raise your left hand and tell them you need more novacaine. LASTLY, it is most important NOT TO WATCH what they are doing, even though you will want to ...it will help keep your mind off of what exactly is going on. GOOD LUCK, and be sure to take good care of your mouth after the surgery. You will feel much better when they are all gone!

Answer 3

I would keep on thinking positive positive thoughts...think about things that you either need to be doing ...later.,.or think about funny stories ..or tell a story to yourself..see how great a story it can be....you have to concentrate on it....be fixated on this story....and perhaps, if it is good enough...to you could share it with others, later...

or think about food...(I know, ironic, but, it might do the trick!)

also, think about if you were rich, from say an inheritance or the powerball lotto...what would you buy, and where would you live...get highly creative about it!

Or pretend you are at a beach...sunning yourself!

or listen to what they are doing....deal with the surgery...learn from what they do to you....they might talk to you, during the procedures...you could always ask them before you start...if they can let you know what they are going to tackle next....(I do that with I go to either the doctors or the dentists....I like knowing...rather than NOT!) also
just relax....because the more relaxed you are..the better the whole thing goes...maybe take a cat nap...while they are working on your mouth!

I have done that too! LOL!

I had my wisdom teeth out , long, ago...but, I was put to sleep! It happened fast! Boy was I glad...because before...my teeth would bite the back part of the insides of my cheeks..everytime I had meat..and I was eating..I would bite the inside of my cheeks..and it didn't feel that great! I think that you will be one happy camper, once those babies are OUT!!! LOL!

Just do whatever works for you...it will be okay!!

Answer 4

Bring an ipod or some kind of music device or if they have a tv in the room ask them to put something you like on. Try to keep your mind off it. Ive had lots of dental work done and Ive had teeth pulled its not at all as bad as people say it is. Just think of happy things and past good times that make you smile not laugh you dont want to laugh. And just remember that you have to go through this now but its better then the pain you could go through if you dont have it done.

Answer 5

How about bringing along some music like an ipod or portable CD player and head phones with your fav tunes on it?

Answer 6

It's normal to be afraid. I have to get that done eventually. Just try and stay calm and relaxed as you can and just remember that it is for your own good. Music is a good idea.

Answer 7

If you feel anything at all you can tell them to stop (raise your hand) and they can give you something to help it. The dentist isn't a scary place!

Answer 8

You can bring an i pod and listen to music.