Every Dentist Needs Your Help Keeping Your Teeth Healthy

In order to keep your smile in its best health condition, sometimes dental extractions are necessary. A dental extraction is the pulling of a tooth and usually happens when a tooth is an extra tooth, the tooth is dying, or the tooth has too much rot to be saved. Sometimes dental extractions happen and dental implants are put in their place, or if the tooth is in the back of the mouth, the dental extractions are left alone once the process is complete.

If you have upcoming dental extractions, your best bet is to be prepared for the process and listen to any and all advice your dentist gives you. Here are ways you can prepare for your next dental appointment so you can have a tooth pulled with ease.

Take a painkiller before you get there

Unless your dentist tells you to do otherwise, take some over-the-counter pain medication prior to going to the dentist. This can be something that has an anti-inflammatory in it as well as a pain reliever. This helps you feel better when you get your procedure done and can help minimize the pain after your dental medications have worn out. Be sure to inform your dentist if you take them in case it causes a reaction with the medication they will give you. 

Have all your at-home care supplies ready

The last thing you want to do is have to go to the store to buy soft foods or to buy an ice pack or heat pad following your dental extractions. Ask your dentist what foods and beverages you should have after getting a tooth pulled and have these supplies ready at home. It's wise to also have some cozy pillows and blankets to rest with while you alternate heating and icing your face to reduce pain and swelling following your dental procedure.

Assign a helpful hand

You'll need someone to help you get your pain medications or oral antibiotics or to run errands for you while you heal following your dental work. Have a trusted friend, family member, significant other, or even a babysitter help you around the house until you are back on your feet again. You will be able to get back to your regular activities once any pain medications given to you at the dentist's office have worn off.

You will get further instructions from your dentist when you have your dental extractions done. In some cases, the procedure is so simple it can be done in moments. In other cases, the procedure can take a while and will require you to be put under general anesthesia. Have a person drive you to and from the dentist on the day of your appointment.

For more info about dental extractions, contact a local dentist.