It’s normal to feel a little anxious about a tooth extraction procedure, especially if you have dealt with dental anxieties in the past. However, there are many ways to reduce nervous feelings to help you sit in the dentist’s chair without raising your blood pressure. Review some of the best practices for easing worries here.

How to Reduce Tooth Extraction Stress

1. Remember Why the Procedure Is Important

If you’re getting an impacted wisdom tooth removed, for example, it will no longer crowd your other teeth or cause pain that can make daily activities challenging. Instead, you get to enjoy a healthy smile that’s free of tooth crowding and misalignment issues that interfere with proper dental care.

2. Be Honest With Your Dentist

Talk to your oral surgeon about your anxiety. The dental professional will answer any questions you have to quell your fears and help you come up with signals that let the surgeon know when you feel uncomfortable or want to take a break. Also, ask as many questions as you want until you feel better about the procedure.

3. Use Deep Breathing Techniques

Practice deep breathing to instantly calm your body and mind, such as breathing in and out through your diaphragm instead of your lungs. Use your favorite techniques in the days before your tooth extraction and while you are at the dentist to help you feel calm.

4. Consider Your Distraction Options

Put on headphones and listen to music during your procedure if distraction works best for you. You can also focus on an object, such as a fidget spinner, or watch your favorite videos and programs on a portable device to help you think about something other than the procedure.

5. Request Sedation

Ask about dental sedation options if you feel it’s best for your tooth extraction. Sedation selections typically include nitrous oxide, which doesn’t put you under but creates a euphoric, relaxed feeling, as well as IVs that put you under completely. Discuss what’s best for your procedure with your oral surgeon. 

Sedation options are available at Oral Surgery Center, S.C. to help tooth extraction patients. The oral surgery practice provides clients throughout Baraboo, WI, with a comprehensive range of services, including wisdom tooth extractions, bone grafting, dental implants, and facial trauma surgery, in addition to cosmetic and general dentistry. Call (608) 356-2112 today to make an appointment or review patient information online.