Healing Guide of Dental Surgery

It's safe to say that most people have a fear of the dentist, from the way it is portrayed in media or personal bad experiences we can't shake off. While it is funny to watch other people leave the dentist from a procedure high on drugs and making a fool of themselves, it becomes significantly less amusing when suddenly its you that has to go through it. Personally, I hate the dentist and kicked mine the first time I had to get a cavity filled (awkward I know). So when I found out I needed to get all 4 of my wisdom teeth taken out because they were growing the wrong way and causing problems, I did what any responsible adult did and avoided it for 2 years until I had to do it.

Now as a needle and dentist fearing 24 year old, I had such anxiety about the whole thing that when it finally happened I was honestly surprised how quick it was. I almost feel silly for being so scared but overall, I felt like I needed to share my experience. Because for how scared I was, I know someone else will be in those shoes so here are 5 tips on getting through dental surgery when you fear everything.

Tip #1: Weigh Surgery Options

I want to say 'Hey, get that knockout juice because it'll make it easier' but the US healthcare system sucks and not everyone can afford it. Personally I was put under full medical anesthesia (which involved an iv, not fun) and it honestly made the procedure for me a lot easier. I fidget and I know the noise of everything would of made me bit and hurt either myself or the surgeon, so it was the right call even if it cost me a very pretty penny. For whatever reason most insurances don't cover the knock out juice but ask your dentist how much your options are. While there is a full knockout, they also have nitrous gas (which in simpler terms is 'laughing gas') that won't knock you out but will make the situation less scary. If you can afford it and have someone that can take you home, then do it.

If you have to do it fully awake, bring earphones. The scariest part is the noises and the staff will not mind you bringing a pair of earbuds for the procedure to distract yourself. Make a loud playlist the day before of comforting songs that will help you through it or download your favorite podcast so you can hear the latest murder mystery. The procedure takes anywhere from 45 minutes to a little over an hour depending on how your teeth are.

Tip #2: Stock Up On Soft Food

The worst part about getting oral surgery is wanting to eat everything you can't eat; tacos, burgers, corndogs, sandwiches, French fries, etc. For 24 hours you are not allowed to eat anything tough, hot, spicy or crunchy. However you're also in pain, so in reality expect to not eat any real solids for the next 2-3 days. At least a few days before your surgery date get soup (remember to eat it lukewarm) , jellos, applesauce, yogurt, individual shakes ,and most importantly your favorite ice cream. The cold-ness of ice cream will hit so different and become your favorite thing to eat. It also honestly helps with the pain if your feeling particularly shitty.

You will feel bad but push yourself to eat, even if its only half a jello or an applesauce. It's also important to drink plenty of water, especially since you will be taking pain killers and antibiotics. The worst thing you can do to yourself is not drink enough fluids after surgery.

Tip #3: Get a Head Wrap

This thing is honestly the best for both the pain and the swelling you will experience from your surgery. I got the LotFancy one on amazon for $14 and used it for all 3 days of my recovery. I was a little worried about it being one size fits all since I have a big head but it fit nice and snug, giving me the right amount of pressure and coldness to help me heal.

You can just use a frozen burrito and hold it to your face but I found this to be the most convenient. The price isn't awful and while you only need it for this, if you have any lingering pain after the three days you have something to help you still.

Tip #4: Take it Easy

Whether you realize it or not, taking out your wisdom teeth is a full surgery. Like any surgery, you need to allow your body to rest and recover from the procedure it went through. 2 to 3 days is recommended but I say give yourself the full 3 days. Why? Because for whatever reason, its the 3rd day your pain is at its peak. After that, the process is smooth sailing.

So allow yourself to rest by wearing your most comfortable pajamas, put on a good movie or bad reality tv and stay in bed. Take naps during the day because sleeping will help you heal faster and the medicine will make you groggy. If your worried about missing your medicine times, put alarms on your phone so you don't have to worry and have one less thing to stress yourself out about. While this situation might suck, take this as a chance to relax and take some you time. Spoil yourself with rest and understanding.

Tip #5: Let Yourself Feel

Whether it be before, during the healing process or after it is all said and done it is ok just let yourself feel. I cried on my way to the dentist because I was honestly terrified about the needle or that something would go wrong with the anesthesia. I cried when I got out still halfway sedated but I blame the drugs for that one. I cried once I was fully aware it was over, realizing that after avoiding it and dealing with random jaw pain for a while I finally pushed myself to go through with it despite it all. In the end, a fear is a fear and we are allowed to be scared of certain things or situations. Even if everything went ok, you can give yourself that moment of reflection and fully let it all sink in. In a way it's a part of the healing process.

But in the end remember you were brave enough to get through it and as long as you take care of the rest of your teeth, you'll never have to do that again. That is the best part of it all.