Originally Posted by ginnie

I am the worlds worst dental patient. Freak out the whole nine yards. I sure understand your apprehension. It would be good if you could meet the dentist doing the extractions before your appointment. If you have a good meeting, and know the oral surgeon or dentist is competent, and cares, you will do just fine. After a life time of fear, I found a dentist I think is awesome. She had me relaxed right from the first meeting. I did have sedation, no issues, no pain, and I healed just fine. I think half the battle is finding the doctor who gives a hoot. Confidence in the person is the key to a good experience. I had three teeth removed last year. It really was not such a bad experience, and my fear was not justified. I am 61 and I spent my life in fear. It is gone now, and the dentist has become a fun experience! Meet the person first to discuss your fears, see how the person responds. Don't do it, if you don't feel confident, or your fears are brushed off. Find another if you don't feel good about it. This can be an OK event, when the right professional is found. ginnie

Originally Posted by Fearfulkid

Bryanna and others that may be able to help,

I have two teeth that need to be extracted (1 lower left molar and 1 upper right premolar, I think). Both are decayed and broken to the gum line. I saw my dentist and he gave me 15 days of amoxicillin for the infection, twice a day 500mg each. The last dosage will be on august 26. He referred me to an oral surgeon to have the procedure done. Also, he said that the infection wasn't too severe, but he'd like the teeth out ASAP.

However, I am 26 years old and no longer in my parents insurance, so I opted for dental hmo plan which meant that I have to see a different dentist and have them refer me to a different oral surgeon. The insurance officially takes in effect on September 2.

I am completely scared because its a new set of professionals that are working with me. Plus I've read horror stories online about the oral surgeon accidentally losing grip of the extracted tooth and it falling into the open airways leading to death. Also, I'm terrified of the iv sedation (needle on arm, etc) even though I know for a fact that I can't do just local because I'm apprehensive about pain. Im scared that the infection would come back afterthe extraction.. so many fears :-(
Also, I'm quite small at 5'0/ 100lbs and everything medical frightens me

I know you've helped eased people's fears of the dentists here, I was hoping you may be able to do the same for me. Thank you soo much in advance. I'm literally crying every night because of this fear and stress.

Originally Posted by Blossom25

fearfulkid, Sweetie you are stressing about something that will very possibly never happen. That is very very rare when people die from having a tooth extracted. They will probably pry the teeth out as opposed to "pulling" with a plyers. I worked in dental offices for 30 plus years and when the tooth is that far gone there is nothing to hang on to so they pry it from one side and then the other. Sometimes the tooth is cut in half and then pryed out. They will do it the easiest way for you and for them. They will not let you feel pain., That is also why you are on antibiotics, to get rid of any infection so the anesthetic will work properly. An oral surgeon is a specialist in extraction only, so they know what they are doing. If you believe in prayer pray for peace within you and for the dentist, that his hands will be guided. If you have any more questions I will be happy to help. Bless you and God be with you. Blossom25

Originally Posted by ginnie

You are not alone, we are thinking about you. All will be well. ginnie

Originally Posted by carolinefinch

I have finally made the decision to have two teeth extracted- both are root cabal/ crowns. They are both on the bottom, opposite of each other- Second to the last teeth (sorry- don't know correct term for these teeth). The one on the right side is an old, cracked canal that has been absessing (small) for years- no real pain. I drain it and clean it. The other one is a year old, and I know it's bad- not cracked, but causes more pain then the other.
My questions are regarding bridge/ and or implants. I've heard varied opinions as to why I HAVE to get something or else my teeth will shift dramatically. My issue is cost- I cannot afford either- even through a credit arrangement.
Would love some feedback, please!!!

BTW I take really good care of my teeth- too late in the game, but I keep at it.