Although a tooth extraction is usually done as a last resort, they are sometimes necessary if the tooth is not erupting, it’s growing improperly, or the mouth is overcrowded. While general dentists can pull teeth, for more complicated cases, you will go to a dental surgeon in Bowie, MD to have a tooth extracted. If you are facing an extraction, here are some things you can do to prepare for it.
Follow Pre-Surgery Instructions
If you have an abscess in your mouth because of an infected tooth, antibiotics will be prescribed prior to the extraction to treat the infection. It is important the medication is taken as directed so there no complications when the dental surgeon removes the bad tooth. Sometimes antibiotics may be necessary after the surgery, and they should be taken as directed to help reduce infections and mitigate the pain as well.
Arrange for Transportation
Since anesthesia is often necessary for oral surgery, you need to arrange for transportation to and from your dental surgeon. If you are having several teeth removed at once, which may be required for getting dentures, then you may be given general anesthesia and kept at the clinic until you have awakened from surgery. Afterwards, you probably won’t be able to drive, so arrange for a friend or family member to take you home.
Ask About Fasting
As with other types of surgery, you will probably need to fast prior to oral surgery. However, the dental surgeon will tell you if fasting is necessary and for how long you should fast. However, diabetics may need to eat a light meal the morning of the surgery. It is normal to be nervous prior to any surgery, but if you’re prepared for it, there shouldn’t be any complications with a tooth extraction.
