In pain...being sent for extractions

[megift]

I've avoided the dentist for more than 20 years. I am paralyzed with anxiety of the thought of going. Last week my right side started hurting! I couldn't determine which tooth was the problem. I got brave enough to go see a dentist who understands anxiety. The result is that I need 4, possibly 5 teeth removed. 2 are wisdom teeth that are through the gum. Through tears, I called the oral surgery office and after review was told that I need a consult that includes a panoramic and 3D imaging. Why do I need that? What does that mean? I don't want to be put under. I've had teeth pulled as a child for braces with just numbing and think I'd be ok. I am out of my mind with anxiety at this point. Please take me down.

 

[megift]

Please talk* me down.

 

[letsconnect]

Hi, first of all well done for working up the courage to see a dentist! Great to hear that you've found someone who understands anxiety.

I presume the reason they want to do panoramic and 3D imaging is that standard x-rays only give a two-dimensional view, which isn't always enough to visualise where the nerves run in relation to the roots of the teeth. So to avoid any accidental damage, it may be best to visualise where things are beforehand. This can be especially true for lower wisdom teeth.

Does that make sense?

 

[megift]

It does. Thank you. Does that mean they are thinking it may be more complicated for that removal?

 

[letsconnect]

I think it just means they don't know from a 2-d image, and they need more info.

Hopefully one of our dentists will be around tomorrow to confirm, but I'm pretty sure that's all it is! I suppose it's a good thing that they're being thorough!

 

[megift]

I can’t thank you enough for responding and walking through this with me. I’m a wreck and feel absolutely ridiculous and unable to feel any different at the same time. I’m filled with doom about the whole thing and afraid of not being able to handle the actual extraction procedure…including being afraid of dying. Thank you for this safe place to share.

 

[Vaidile]

I just wanted to add that extractions are definitely something you can do with just local, if you want. I've had a few, including 2 wisdom teeth. Some sensations might be a bit unpleasant, but in my experience oral surgeons don't skimp on local, so there shouldn't be any pain (if there is, tell them and they will numb you some more).

When is your appointment? Please let us know how it goes. You got this!

 

[Gordon]

I think it just means they don't know from a 2-d image, and they need more info.

Yep, that'll be the reason. Mostly to keep the lawyers happy

 

[megift]

@Gordon What does that mean....to keep the lawyers happy?

 

[megift]

@Vaidile Thank you!!! Your support means the world to me. My consultation is this morning. I just want it all over with and behind me!!! After the motrin and tylenol started working, I can tell it's one tooth in particular. I'm praying they take that into consideration.

 

[Gordon]

What does that mean....to keep the lawyers happy?

I believe the US expression is to CYA? To make sure they won't get sued.

 

[megift]

At the consultation yesterday, the doctor said it was a straightforward procedure. Removal of 4 teeth (3 upper and one lower exposed wisdom tooth) Suggested a bone graft for two of the areas. Also assumed IV sedition. I do not want that, so agreed to just numbing. The procedure is scheduled for next Thursday and I am out of my mind worried with anxiety and doom.

 

[megift]

Appointment is tomorrow at 10:45. I am terrified

 

[letsconnect]

Best of luck for tomorrow @megift! If the doctor feels it’s a straightforward, routine procedure, they’re most likely right - after all, it’s something they see and do many times each day. Obviously it’s not a routine thing for you though! So make sure they and their team are aware that you’re very anxious .

All the best and please let us know how you got on