Is quiet tooth extraction possible?

[Chianti]

Upcoming for me in February is extraction of four upper teeth in a row (central incisor to premolar) and placement of three implants for a bridge (in the same session – immediate implants). I had a lower molar extracted a few months ago and the loud cracking sounds as it let go were quite distressing. Generally, I am a calm patient when gently treated but I felt aggrieved that I was given no warning of this and it has reawakened my somewhat wary attitude towards dentists. I understand that some people are happier not being told everything but I am the opposite and like to feel that I am fully aware of what is going to happen or I am not properly consenting to treatment.

I asked the oral surgeon who will be carrying out the procedure if there would be cracking sounds (I am particularly worried about the number 3 tooth with its longer root) when the teeth are removed and he said yes, probably. I can’t help thinking this is unnecessarily barbaric and surely a surgeon would have the skills to remove teeth in a less traumatic manner? I want to maintain my composure throughout all this but if I am subjected to a series of loud cracks I will be sorely tempted to kick him (since I won’t have much left to bite him with!). Somehow the implant placement doesn’t worry me, just the extractions.

Are the cracking sounds unavoidable or is there a better way?

 

[Gordon]

Pretty unavoidable I'm afraid. In your case they'll be taking extra care with the extractions to avoid messing up the bone too much for the implants, and front teeth generally put up less resistance than multi-rooted molars, but I think total silence is almost impossible to guarantee.

 

[Chianti]

Thank you Gordon. Oh well, at least I will be prepared this time. I suppose it's also the emotional aspect of losing very visible teeth in a matter of minutes. I have to count myself lucky that I have sufficient quality and quantity of bone and can find the funds for this treatment. Will be very glad when it's all over.

 

[Gordon]

Wear some noise cancelling headphones? It won't block out all the noise but it might help a little?

Let me know how you get on?