How to Deal with Wisdom Tooth Extraction Anxiety

Few patients look forward to wisdom tooth extraction. But for some, the idea of having this procedure can generate severe fear and anxiety.

If you’re worried about your upcoming tooth extraction, it’s important for you to know that this reaction is normal. Following our helpful tips can help curb your anxiety about having your wisdom teeth removed.

Talk to Your Oral Surgeon

Don’t hesitate to voice your concerns about wisdom tooth extraction to your oral surgeon and their team. We want you to feel at ease, and we can’t help if you don’t speak up.

Tell us why you’re worried and which aspects of the procedure are causing your anxiety. Feel free to ask questions, too. Having answers can help alleviate your fears, and our oral surgery staff is always happy to share our best tips for eliminating the jitters.

Focus on the Positives

Getting your wisdom teeth pulled may not be fun, but it’s beneficial to your ongoing oral health.

Have your third molars removed and you’ll decrease your risk of developing gum disease and tooth decay. And you won’t have to worry about your wisdom teeth creating problems with tooth alignment or damaging their neighbors as they erupt.

The pain will soon be a distant memory, but the benefits of having this procedure done will last a lifetime. In fact, a little discomfort now can help prevent a series of painful infections later.

Remember, Anesthesia Is Your Friend

Without anesthesia, wisdom tooth extraction would be unpleasant. Fortunately, you don’t have to grin and bear it. Oral surgeons provide a range of safe, effective anesthesia options.

Many anxious patients opt for laughing gas, also known as nitrous oxide. Simply breathe in the safe, odorless mixture and you’ll feel calm and worry-free. The tooth extraction will pass by in a flash and you won’t be in any pain during the procedure.

Intravenous (IV) sedation is another good choice for anyone with oral surgery anxiety. This type of anesthesia will put you into a pain-free “twilight sleep.” With IV sedation, you’re unlikely to even remember anything about your wisdom tooth extraction procedure.

With the right anesthesia and a compassionate, caring oral surgeon, getting your wisdom teeth removed can be a smooth and easy experience. Don’t let your worries prevent you from pursuing the treatment you need. Instead, turn to the professional team at Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery of Utah.

Dr. Partridge and Dr. Maxfield, along with the rest of our surgical staff, are committed to helping every patient feel safe and comfortable. At Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery of Utah, your concerns are our concerns, and we’ll do whatever we can to put you at ease for your procedure. Contact our Cottonwood Heights, South Jordan or Tooele office today to schedule your wisdom tooth extraction consultation.