Went to the dentist - finally! How do I deal with the upcoming extractions?

[Dianne]

Went to the dentist - finally! How do I deal with the upcoming extractions?

Hello!

I've been on this forum reading posts for the last year. It has really helped me to know that I'm not alone. I am 46 years old and haven't been to the dentist in 15-20 years. I finally built up the courage to go this Tuesday (4/24/2012). I found out that 21 of my teeth need to be pulled and I'll need partial dentures on the top and bottom front. My next appointment is next Thursday (5/3/2012) for impressions. I then will need to schedule my tooth extractions. Ugh! I am truly terrified! i can't think of anything else! They do IV sedation, which also terrifies me, but it beats being somewhat awake as they pull my teeth! This is one of the biggest things I've done in my life! I cannot believe how much this fear has consumed me. I'm tired of being a prisoner in my own body! Posting this in hopes that someone can give me the encouragement I need. Thank you!

Dianne

 

[Kim]

Re: Went to the dentist - finally! How do I deal with the upcoming extractions?

Hi Dianne and

You are certainly not alone, and will find there are a lot of people who have a) been in your situation or b) are going through what you are, so keep on having a look at people's posts, and what they have to say about their experiences or up and coming experiences.

You will find a wealth of help, information and encouragement (as I have) from a whole bunch of people who have their own fears to contend with, and who genuinely want to help others with theirs.

Take things at your own pace, and at a pace that you feel comfortable with. I like you hadn't been to the dentist in 20+ years and was/am still petrified. I found my dentist through this website and all because of of someone having recommended that I get a 3rd opinion. If you knew how much that freaked me out - well!!! Anyway, I did, and am so glad that I did, because I have found someone who has a great interest in his patients, is extremely kind and lets you take the time that you need, to ask the questions that you want answers to, and deal with the whole thing at your own pace.

Oh yes, forgot to mention, when I begin my treatment, I have opted for IV sedation - for me personally, that is the only way I could get through this. Again for me, I had to go to my GP for something to calm me down, as I was having massive panic attacks. I didn't need to take them for my 3rd assessment, as I had figured I had gone through this twice already, but my dentist is going to give me something for even when he feels I may need it to get me through an appointment.

So you hang on in there, you have taken the first steps to a happier healthier future for yourself, so well done and keep us posted.

 

[Dianne]

Re: Went to the dentist - finally! How do I deal with the upcoming extractions?

Hi Dianne and

You are certainly not alone, and will find there are a lot of people who have a) been in your situation or b) are going through what you are, so keep on having a look at people's posts, and what they have to say about their experiences or up and coming experiences.

You will find a wealth of help, information and encouragement (as I have) from a whole bunch of people who have their own fears to contend with, and who genuinely want to help others with theirs.

Take things at your own pace, and at a pace that you feel comfortable with. I like you hadn't been to the dentist in 20+ years and was/am still petrified. I found my dentist through this website and all because of of someone having recommended that I get a 3rd opinion. If you knew how much that freaked me out - well!!! Anyway, I did, and am so glad that I did, because I have found someone who has a great interest in his patients, is extremely kind and lets you take the time that you need, to ask the questions that you want answers to, and deal with the whole thing at your own pace.

Oh yes, forgot to mention, when I begin my treatment, I have opted for IV sedation - for me personally, that is the only way I could get through this. Again for me, I had to go to my GP for something to calm me down, as I was having massive panic attacks. I didn't need to take them for my 3rd assessment, as I had figured I had gone through this twice already, but my dentist is going to give me something for even when he feels I may need it to get me through an appointment.

So you hang on in there, you have taken the first steps to a happier healthier future for yourself, so well done and keep us posted.

Thank you, Kimbo! This definitely is an excellent website for us folks fearful of the dentist! I have my ups and downs. Part of me is excited to finally be able to smile without trying not to show my teeth or hiding my mouth with my hand. I'm getting IV sedation as well. There is no way I can be somewhat awake and have 21 teeth pulled! Ugh! I just wish this d**n phobia would just go away. I will continue to pray and get through this. Thanks, again! God bless!

 

[Pippa]

Re: Went to the dentist - finally! How do I deal with the upcoming extractions?

You have done very well so far. It took me ages to start posting here as well, but I have now been to the dentist and h ad 5 out and a partial placed ( upper gum).

The impressions are no big deal and the extractions do not take long at all.I was suprised.

Keep on being excited about the new smile and also think how healthy your mouth will be and the biggest plus is no more tooth aches in those places !

Good luck.

 

[Dianne]

I finally made the appointment - 21 teeth coming out in June! Really scared!

I have my appointment scheduled for June 12th to have 21 teeth extracted. 21 teeth!!! OMG! It's all I can think about! I've never had a tooth pulled and have never been sedated (the dentist recommended sedation because I have so many teeth that need to come out). I don't know how to prepare for this! I am so afraid I won't wake up from the sedation. Silly, I know, but it's worrying me. Can someone help put my fears to rest? I know it is irrational! I'm also worried about the pain afterwards. How much pain will I be in? I'm just really scared about the whole thing! I wish I could blink my eyes and it would be over! I will be getting partials on the tops and bottom. This waiting is killing me! Is my anxiety actually worse than the surgery will be? Thanks for listening!

P.S. I put this sign on my wall at work to help with the nervousness. "A mind focused on doubt and fear cannot focus on the journey to victory!" I read it everyday!

 

[viennarose]

Re: I finally made the appointment - 21 teeth coming out in June! Really scared!

Congrats on making your appointment! I'm in a similar situation and haven't made that step yet. It's not silly to be worried about the anesthetic, I was too. Just remember that they wouldn't recommend it if they weren't sure you would be perfectly fine.

As for the pain afterwards, I haven't personally gone through it yet but I can't imagine it will hurt nearly as bad as what we're going through now! Plus, if there is soreness it will last a week? Maybe two. With the teeth in they will hurt forever.

I think you will do just fine.

 

[bisja]

Re: I finally made the appointment - 21 teeth coming out in June! Really scared!

It will be ok try not to worry, I had 14 teeth pulled 1 month ago, I was not put out but took Valium, honestly I would have rather been put out , after its done you will heal quickly it amazes me how fast the mouth can heal.
I love your sign I copied that and will keep that on my desk top that's a great saying.

 

[Kim]

Re: I finally made the appointment - 21 teeth coming out in June! Really scared!

I am having 11 extractions next Friday and although I already have no back teeth, will be getting full dentures, although not immediately.

I had a bad morning this morning, as I woke up and thought...... this time next week...... and that started my day off badly. I came into work and one of my friends asked how I was and I just said I wasn't good today and burst into tears! She gave me a cuddle, and told me to take one of my tablets to help calm me down, and I was shaking and crying so much. I did, and have to say it has done the trick.

My stomach is still in a knot, and will be that way until next Friday is over and done with. My appointment is 10am, and so this time next week, that part of my treatment will be over, and then I can work my way towards the next, but allowing myself healing time also.

The waiting is horrible, and the worrying sometimes excrutiating, but with support and encouragement, you will get through this difficult time.

I will be taking oral sedation the night before and on the morning of, and then having iv sedation. For me it is the only way I could get through it.

Can you not get an earlier appointment by any chance?

I wish you well.

 

[Dianne]

Re: I finally made the appointment - 21 teeth coming out in June! Really scared!

I am having 11 extractions next Friday and although I already have no back teeth, will be getting full dentures, although not immediately.

I had a bad morning this morning, as I woke up and thought...... this time next week...... and that started my day off badly. I came into work and one of my friends asked how I was and I just said I wasn't good today and burst into tears! She gave me a cuddle, and told me to take one of my tablets to help calm me down, and I was shaking and crying so much. I did, and have to say it has done the trick.

My stomach is still in a knot, and will be that way until next Friday is over and done with. My appointment is 10am, and so this time next week, that part of my treatment will be over, and then I can work my way towards the next, but allowing myself healing time also.

The waiting is horrible, and the worrying sometimes excrutiating, but with support and encouragement, you will get through this difficult time.

I will be taking oral sedation the night before and on the morning of, and then having iv sedation. For me it is the only way I could get through it.

Can you not get an earlier appointment by any chance?

I wish you well.

Hi! I totally understand the crying part! My poor co-workers have seen me cry several times over this! They have been absolutely wonderful! I, too, am taking valium the night before so I can sleep as well as the morning of the appointment. Unfortunately, the earliest they could get me in is June 12th (that's when the oral surgeon is there) at 12:30 p.m. Yikes! I have to sit at home all morning anticipating this appointment. I am absolutely dreading that day! I can't even imagine being awake through this! I wish you well too! Take care!

 

[DarrenH]

Re: I finally made the appointment - 21 teeth coming out in June! Really scared!

I don't know how to prepare for this! I am so afraid I won't wake up from the sedation. Silly, I know, but it's worrying me. Can someone help put my fears to rest? I know it is irrational! I'm also worried about the pain afterwards. How much pain will I be in? I'm just really scared about the whole thing! I wish I could blink my eyes and it would be over!

It will all soon enough just be a bad memory

As for the pain, I've had two teeth out in last 5 weeks, I didn't need any pain relief after either, my mouth was sore but I wouldn't say painful.

Id say your mouth might be sore for a week, especially the first couple of days, then the soreness goes away pretty rapidly .

I know its hard but just try and think how good you will feel after with it all behind you,

 

[Dianne]

Re: I finally made the appointment - 21 teeth coming out in June! Really scared!

It will all soon enough just be a bad memory

As for the pain, I've had two teeth out in last 5 weeks, I didn't need any pain relief after either, my mouth was sore but I wouldn't say painful.

Id say your mouth might be sore for a week, especially the first couple of days, then the soreness goes away pretty rapidly .

I know its hard but just try and think how good you will feel after with it all behind you,

Thank you DarrenH. I do feel very proud of myself for 1) finally making the appointment - it only took me 20 years! 2) I had my impressions last week (not fun) and 3) have my extractions scheduled. A year ago, I couldn't even imagine doing what I've done. So with alot of prayer, this forum and friends who listen, it has really helped me. I also try to focus on the end result and to also know that I'm not alone and it could be soooo much worse! Thanks for the reply!

 

[Pianimo]

Re: I finally made the appointment - 21 teeth coming out in June! Really scared!

Hi Dianne. I've merged your last couple of threads to help everyone keep track of your story.
Well done for taking the plunge and making the appointment!

I've never had a tooth pulled and have never been sedated (the dentist recommended sedation because I have so many teeth that need to come out). I don't know how to prepare for this! I am so afraid I won't wake up from the sedation. Silly, I know, but it's worrying me. Can someone help put my fears to rest? I know it is irrational!

I don't think it's silly - it's normal, and in fact quite sensible really, to be apprehendive about something you've never experienced before! First thing - IV sedation is not the same as having a general anaesthetic and you are not unsconscious - so it's IMPOSSIBLE that you won't wake up, because you'll never be be asleep in the first place! You may well feel as if you have been asleep though - the sedation makes you feel very drowsy and relaxed; it changes your sense of time (so an hour feels like five minutes); and it affects your memory, so you'll probably remember little or nothing of what happened. So, all the benefits of being put to sleep, without any of the dangers to worry about - that's why IV sedation is so great! I've had it a few times now, and not only lived to tell the tale, but also to sing its praises - it doesn't suit everyone, but I think it's brilliant! For more info, have a read of this page:

IV Sedation

Find out all about IV dental sedation: what does it feel like, is it safe, and how do the sedation drugs midazolam and remimazolam differ?

www.dentalfearcentral.org

Hope this allays some of your fears!

I'm also worried about the pain afterwards. How much pain will I be in?

Unfortunately, as you might imagine, that's a bit like "how long is a piece of string" - different people heal differently, and people have different tolerance to pain, so there's no exact answer. Some people seem to breeze through the recovery with no problem and virtually no pain; most people have some pain for a few days, but it's manageable with over-the-counter painkillers (or whatever your dentist gives you). The key thing is to take your first dose of painkillers before the local anaesthetic wears off.

I'm just really scared about the whole thing! I wish I could blink my eyes and it would be over! I will be getting partials on the tops and bottom. This waiting is killing me! Is my anxiety actually worse than the surgery will be?

I've not had your exact treatment, but I can say that for so many appointments attended by so many of us here, the waiting has indeed been the worst part! Why not have a read of some of the success stories here:

Personal Stories of Dental Phobia

Read the stories of people who faced their phobia of the dentist, often after decades away from the dental chair - and lived to tell the tale!

www.dentalfearcentral.org

They're all people like you and me - TERRIFIED beforehand - and they all came out with a success story to tell! It's not going to make your anxiety disappear, but they really are a great source of hope and inspiration, both of which come in pretty handy in this nerve-filled waiting period!

And finally, I can offer my specialty....big hugs! Hope these next few weeks go as quickly and as calmly as possible for you!

 

[Kim]

Re: Went to the dentist - finally! How do I deal with the upcoming extractions?

Thanks for that really helpful post Pianimo - helped me too, as I keep thinking of all the what if's etc. I know I won't not wake up from the iv sedation, because as you say you are not totally asleep, but I truly do hope that I really am 'out of it' for the whole of the procedure to be done. My dentist has said that it works for 99% of people, so I truly hope I am not in the 1% that it doesn't work for. In saying that, he has also told me that if it doesn't work, or I am in anyway uncomfortable, he won't continue and will get someone else in to administer stronger sedation, which may mean a mixture of drugs so that has reassured me.

I can't imagine what pain I will be in and for how long, but as you also said, it is different for everyone. Hopefully we will get through our treatments with the least pain possible, and come out of it the other side saying we really needn't have worried about it at all

 

[Dianne]

Re: Went to the dentist - finally! How do I deal with the upcoming extractions?

Hi all! Well, I have 4 days until my extractions! I am feeling very anxious today. I am truly dreading Monday because the next day is my surgery. Very teary today and scared! I just wish this whole thing was over! This is the hardest thing I have ever done! I really need some encouragement. Thanks!

 

[Kim]

Re: Went to the dentist - finally! How do I deal with the upcoming extractions?

Ah bless you Dianne

It is only natural to feel anxious. I couldn't believe the amount of times I cried on the lead up to my extractions. Even today, I looked at the clock at 10.30 am and thought, OMG this time 3 weeks ago, I was out of it and having my extractions. My eyes welled up with tears. Our journey's are so emotionally draining, and they take a lot out of you.

Yesterday, I was an emotional wreck and think it all started from going out to a very public place for breakfast. I was teary all day yesterday, but don't feel so bad today.

You can only prepare yourself so much for what is going to happen, and I will be thinking of you all the way on this one.

Sending loads of these for you, to try and cheer you up a little

Kim x

 

[Dianne]

Re: Went to the dentist - finally! How do I deal with the upcoming extractions?

Ah bless you Dianne

It is only natural to feel anxious. I couldn't believe the amount of times I cried on the lead up to my extractions. Even today, I looked at the clock at 10.30 am and thought, OMG this time 3 weeks ago, I was out of it and having my extractions. My eyes welled up with tears. Our journey's are so emotionally draining, and they take a lot out of you.

Yesterday, I was an emotional wreck and think it all started from going out to a very public place for breakfast. I was teary all day yesterday, but don't feel so bad today.

You can only prepare yourself so much for what is going to happen, and I will be thinking of you all the way on this one.

Sending loads of these for you, to try and cheer you up a little

Kim x

Thanks so much, Kimbo! Got teary-eyed just reading your response. I cannot believe how dibilitating this phobia is! I hate it! Part of me is soooo ready to do this and the other part of me just wants to run away! Thanks for your kind words!

 

[Kim]

Re: Went to the dentist - finally! How do I deal with the upcoming extractions?

No worries Dianne - my words come from my heart.

I can still sooooo remember when I was on holiday in Australia in February and my crown broke, leading up to where I am today. I sent my husband a text saying that my worst nightmare had begun, and when he found out what it was, he thought it quite comical!

I think that when you do have a phobia you just can't get across to people who don't how bad it makes you feel, especially when it comes to your mouth. I always used to think that people who stayed off work because of a bad back were just 'faking it' - that was until I was at a farmer's market and bent down to pick up so veggies, and couldn't get back up because my back had 'gone'. Now I so totally get it when people have bad backs, because it is just a debilitating as a phobia.

You will feel rubbish up until you get your appointment, and once it is over, you will be overcome in a strange sort of way with a sense of relief, and then you can prepare yourself for your onward journey.

My thoughts are with you, here if you need - you take care and, oh well, go on then - another couple of my favourite

Kim x

 

[carol999]

Re: Went to the dentist - finally! How do I deal with the upcoming extractions?

Hi Dianne, thought I would drop by and let you know I am thinking of you. I have had IV sedation a number of times now. My first experience was rather comical because before the sedation I was crying and saying please dont hurt me and after the treatment I came round and said thanks for the party - I truly felt like I had been to a great party and that I was a little drunk. You dont remember a thing so it feels like you must have been unconscious but you are not. It really is the only way I can face it. I know you must be very anxious at the moment. This is another step towards a healthy life and I really respect what you are doing I will be thinking about you this week and I really hope it all goes ok. Sending you loads of support encouragement and hugs

 

[Dianne]

Re: Went to the dentist - finally! How do I deal with the upcoming extractions?

Hi Dianne, thought I would drop by and let you know I am thinking of you. I have had IV sedation a number of times now. My first experience was rather comical because before the sedation I was crying and saying please dont hurt me and after the treatment I came round and said thanks for the party - I truly felt like I had been to a great party and that I was a little drunk. You dont remember a thing so it feels like you must have been unconscious but you are not. It really is the only way I can face it. I know you must be very anxious at the moment. This is another step towards a healthy life and I really respect what you are doing I will be thinking about you this week and I really hope it all goes ok. Sending you loads of support encouragement and hugs

Awww, thanks so much Carol999! Tomorrow is the day (Tuesday)! My appointment is at 12:30 p.m. to have 21 teeth extracted. I'm scared, but funny enough, I feel a sense of relief! So glad it's finally here! The waiting is soooo hard! I'll post again this week when I am feeling up to it! I just love, love, love this foum! I know I wouldn't be where I am today without it! God bless you all!

 

[Kim]

Re: Went to the dentist - finally! How do I deal with the upcoming extractions?

Will be thinking of you tomorrow - you will do far better than you think you will be. I think you are right about this forum, helps so many people in so many ways.

Take care hunni, and stay strong.

Kim x