If you need an emergency tooth extraction, you may feel a bit scared. Such a procedure can sound risky and painful when you’ve never had it before. With that said, your anxiety doesn’t have to hold you back; it’s possible to overcome a fear of tooth extractions. Your Sachse dentist will even share a few tips and tricks for doing so. To that end, here are four ways to conquer your tooth extraction fear before your treatment.
Do Some Deep Breathing
Your extraction fear may have a physical or visceral element to it. If so, try doing some deep breathing ahead of your procedure.
Breathing exercises are beneficial for physical anxiety symptoms. By taking deep breaths (followed by slow exhales), you’ll reduce bodily stress/tension and lower your heart rate. These effects – prompted by the release of feel-good endorphins – should help calm your mind and ease your extraction worries.
Remember That Extraction Helps
If your fear of tooth extractions is cerebral, remember what to expect from treatment and how it helps. This approach assures you that you’re making the right choice.
In particular, you’d do well to consider how extraction solves the following:
- A tooth irreparably damaged by extensive decay or an abscess
- A traumatic injury, such as a fracture beneath the gumline
- Advanced gum disease that compromises your jaw, loosening teeth as a result
Listen to Music You Like
A distraction is often the best solution to fears, whether they’re extraction-related or not. Given that fact, listen to music you like while you’re in the dentist’s chair.
Music is great for taking your mind off certain thoughts and feelings. By listening to a genre you love, you can easily soothe your anxiety until it disappears. All you’d need to do is pop in your earbuds and let the right song “transport” you during your extraction.
Bring a Friend or Family Member
Being near a loved one can quickly ease someone’s stress. Therefore, try bringing a friend or family member along to your extraction treatment.
A good, trustworthy companion can reassure you in the harshest times. That being the case, have someone you care for nearby during your extraction. Seeing them at your side would probably relieve many of your worries. (As a side benefit, they could also drive you home after your procedure.)
Don’t let your fear of tooth extractions keep you from crucial care. Instead, use the tricks above to overcome it and protect your smile!
About the Practice
Sachse Family Dentistry is based in Sachse, TX. Led by Dr. Travis Rottman, our practice works to give every patient superior dental care. We make that happen by offering top-tier preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments tailored to your smile! Whether you need dental checkups or tooth extractions, our team will do an excellent job. For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (972)-848-0073.