While we always aim to save a tooth rather than extract it, if it’s necessary it can improve your oral health, get you out of pain, and save your smile. After your tooth extraction, you will receive after-care instructions that tell you how to best care for your mouth while you are healing. However, it’s also important to know what you can do ahead of time to make it a smooth process, so we’ll be sharing a few tips today on how you can prepare for your extraction procedure.
Meal Plan Ahead of Time
After an extraction, it’s important you stick to soft foods for a while to avoid disrupting the healing process. However, the last thing you want to worry about is what to eat the day of or after your procedure. So, plan ahead. You’ll want to eat soft foods for at least 24 hours, if not for up to several days after your procedure. We’ll discuss what’s necessary prior to the procedure for you based on your personal situation.
Arrange for a Ride Home
If you receive dental sedation, particularly IV sedation, you won’t be in any shape to drive after your procedure, so make sure you plan for a safe way to get home. Consider asking a friend or family member, and make sure they know well in advance the timing of your appointment. If that isn’t possible, make sure you have a taxi or Uber driver scheduled to show up.
Dress Comfortably
You’ll want to wear comfortable clothing during your procedure. While we will ensure it’s as painless as possible, you’ll still want to arrive in something you can feel relaxed wearing that’s also appropriate for the procedure. Wear a short-sleeved shirt and avoid wearing any kind of jewelry.
Ask Questions
If there is anything you don’t understand about your tooth extraction, it’s important you ask as many questions as needed. While a tooth extraction can be a fairly simple procedure, we understand how nerve-wracking it can be for many patients.
Get to Know Your Replacement Options
If you are worried about how your smile will look after your extraction, luckily we have several restorative options that we can discuss with you! A dental bridge can fill in the gap of several teeth in a row. We can even give you the same strength as a normal tooth by placing a dental implant that functions like your tooth roots.
With our expert team, there’s nothing to worry about with a tooth extraction. Call Contemporary Dentistry and Implantology in Peabody, MA at 978-278-1760 for an appointment or request an appointment online.