Please Help... Upcoming tooth extraction.
 

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.

I recently had a tooth extracted and was very apprehensive as well. I had it done under local the the numbing shots in the gum were only slightly painful and I did not even know the moment that my tooth was removed till they held it up in front of me.
Perhaps having a dental dam might ease your fears about a tooth falling into the open airways. Hope that helps. I'm sure Bryanna will be along with some well qualified advise.

J

Thank you for your reply. I'm hoping my extractions would be as simple as yours, but I doubt it since my teeth are infected (taking antibiotics), decayed and broken with no crown left :/

I looked into dental dams. I wonder if the oral surgeon would be inhibited during the surgery because of it. I just can't wait for all of this to be done and over with :(



QUOTE=youngatart;1008673]I recently had a tooth extracted and was very apprehensive as well. I had it done under local the the numbing shots in the gum were only slightly painful and I did not even know the moment that my tooth was removed till they held it up in front of me.
Perhaps having a dental dam might ease your fears about a tooth falling into the open airways. Hope that helps. I'm sure Bryanna will be along with some well qualified advise.

J[/QUOTE]

Hi fearfulkid,

I am in the dental field and can offer you some help here.

First of all it's okay to feel apprehensive. Everyone feels that way about having a tooth removed. Yes, it can be a bit more difficult when the tooth is decayed and broken to the gum line. But there are special refined instruments that are used in cases like yours and the outcome will be okay.

Regarding the IV sedation for oral surgery... this will be SO quick and painless. The needle they use is very small and sometimes put into the back of the hand rather than the arm. But either way it is not anything like you are imaging it to be. You will immediately go in to a twilight sleep. You will wake up feeling pretty well and maybe just slightly groggy. The areas of extractions will be very numb for several hours... which is good. The time between the IV and when you are all done will feel like only seconds have passed.

On a side note... I too am very petite.... 5'2... under 100 lbs. So I understand what you are saying about medical things concerning you. The OS will take in to consideration your size and weight when the IV meds are administered so as to not give you more than necessary. If it makes you feel better.... remind him of your petite-ness :)

Regarding the financial aspect of this.....
I know dentistry is expensive... too expensive.... in fact way over priced! However, if you like the oral surgeon that you consulted and are not comfortable going to a new general dentist and then new OS.... feel free to call the OS (that you saw) and speak to the office manager about a financial arrangement. Ask her if the office offers a discount for paying cash at the time of the service and/or for people without insurance and/or a short term financial plan. People do this all the time... so give it a shot!

Regarding the use of a dental dam.... great idea by Jay... his cleverness amazes me sometimes ;) However, dental dams are not generally used for tooth extractions, especially when the teeth are broken to the gum. The assistant may or may not line the inside of your mouth with gauze too catch any falling pieces of tooth. You will be asleep so this will not bother you.
As for what you have read online about people aspirating an extracted tooth and dying from that event...... this is extremely rare and in my 35 yr career, I have never had that happen. I have had patients swallow their tooth... only to discover it later on that evening when it... passed. This is rare event is really not something to be concerned about as it will only cause you undue anxiety and stress.

A side note, it is best to have these teeth removed while you are on this antibiotic so to avoid having to take more of it later on.

Please let us know how you're doing... and if we can help you.
Bryanna

Hi Bryanna! Thank you so much for the reassurance and new information regarding the procedure. I feel a bit better now that I know more about it... you definitely eased some of my worries, especially since you're petite as well! :)

I get my dental hmo plan officially on sept 1. I'm hoping that I can get referred to an OS on the 2nd, and hopefully schedule the consultation/extraction the following week. Do you think this would be ok since I'll be finished with my antibiotics on August 26. Is it possible for the infection to recur within those couple weeks before extraction?

Regarding the infection, what are the chances of it recurring after the extraction, even with prescribed antibiotics before and after? Also, I have a partially erupted wisdom tooth next to the #18 extraction... I was wondering if this should be extracted as well, if so can these extractions all be done at one go? I'd rather get it all done and healed up altogether.

I'm hoping this is irrelevant to the tooth infection, but last night before bed, I started having left side neck/shoulder pain. I can lift my arms just fine, only hurts when I move forward or do circular motions with my shoulder. Perhaps I just unknowingly pulled/strained a muscle? I hope so :/

Oh and I called the surgeon that I initially wanted and asked about payment plans, especially paying it in cash etc. and unfortunately they don't do that at their practice :(

Again, thank you so much for your time and effort to answer questions on here. It's such a relief that I can have someone in the field to talk to :) I'm sorry this post is so long.

I'm sorry, i have more questions :(....During the procedure (iv sedation), are you fully asleep? Or can you respond to the surgeons questions etc, are your reflexes still functioning? Is it possible to gag for having your mouth open for awhile. Roughly, how long is the surgery for extracting teeth?

I'm so sorry to bombard you guys with questions, but thank you in advance for possible answers.

Find a Dentous Tbhat Gives Nitrous Oxide
 

[QUOTE=Fearfulkid;1008658]Bryanna and others that may be able to help,


Then get your favourite soms omn your MP3 Player I had all my teeth pulled tried all methods and as soon as they take the Mask off you dont feel it ,I would say it makes the time go by very fast and get plenty of Lidocaine oir whatever Anesthesia ,getting them out wont be bad ,promise
Gentle Hug
Rsdno

Hi-

I was an OR nurse. If you are having IV sedation, you are not under General anethesia....there is a difference...You probably will not remember anything, and the Dr/dentist knows how much to give based on certain factors, everyone is different.

When removing bony impacted wisdome teeth in the OR, w/General anesthesia and the pt. was intubated (Breathing tube in the airway), the oral surgeon would place a wet sponge (gauze) so nothing would go down the airway, so the pt would not aspirate.

I hope this helps.

Hi Fearfulkid,

No worries.... ask all the questions you want to :)

During oral surgery in the dental office the IV sedation is a mixture of meds that put the patient into a twilight sleep. You are asleep but not unconscious. There is no intubation (air way tube in the throat) necessary. You feel like you are in a deep sleep, the perception of time goes by extremely quickly and you wake up with no memory of the event. You will not be responsive to questions and you will be very calm and comfortable.... just like you were in a deep relaxed sleep. Your entire body is at rest... not paralyzed, just at rest. You will not gag because you will have no sensation of anything going on. So nothing will bother you.

Some tooth extractions take 15 minutes, some a bit longer... depends on how easy the tooth releases from the bone. The surgeon tries to do it as quickly and safely as possible.

I hope this helps.... please feel free to ask questions :)

Bryanna

Thanks everyone for the kind words and encouragement ... Guys, I really do appreciate it :)

Bryanna, thank you so much for taking part of this forum to help better inform people like me lol.
I was wondering though regarding the infection, I was given amoxicillin (500mg;twice a day for 15 days). My last day to take it is on August 26, however my extraction most likely wont be until the 2nd week of September. Do you think the infection can reoccur within those two weeks before extraction? Also, is it possible for that infection to linger even AFTER extraction and with prescribed antibiotics? Oh and if it helps, my dentist who prescribed the antibiotic said that the infection is not severe.

I'm sorry for asking soo many questions lol

I just wanted to jump in and tell you that I was under sedation (twilight sleep) when I got my wisdom teeth removed. I barely felt the needle going in and then poof, the whole process was over! I was able to follow the dentists instructions like "turn your head" but I felt no pain as I was just kind of blissed out. I hope your extraction goes well!

Hi Fearfulkid,

Ask as many questions as you want.... no worries.

The antibiotic is not going to cure the infection as long as the tooth is present because the tooth is the source of the infection. The antibiotic will stay in your system for maybe a day or two... possibly a bit longer after you have taken your last dose. But you could ask the pharmacist to be more exact.

The OS may prescribe another round of antibiotics after the extraction. Depends on what he sees at that time. You could call the OS office and see if they want you to continue your antibiotic until after the extraction.

Bryanna

Canmom,

Thank you for the reassurance it means a lot to me :)

Bryanna,

Ohh ok that makes sense. What I'm afraid of is do you think there's still a possibility that the infection (dentist said wasn't severe when he prescribed amox) can spread to my lungs, brain, heart, etc within those 2 weeks that I have before extraction? I'm scared of that because I heard it can get serious fast :(

My last day of antibiotics is on 8/25 after being on it for 15 days and the extraction won't be until around 2nd week of September for insurance to kick in.

Thank you in advance for your answer :)

Ok, I can't speak to the antibiotics, but wanted to pipe up regarding extraction. I've had 6 extractions, and then my 4 wisdom teeth (10 total). I've been asleep, twilight and awake. All 3 are totally doable! What is the most important is the recovery. Rest, take your medication, only eat soft foods, and follow your doctors instructions. And frankly, the first day, don't wait for it to hurt, just take your pain medication-that was the best advice given to me by an oral surgeon.

I promise you can totally do this!

Fearfulkid,

No one can say whether or not the infection could become systemic within that time frame or sooner or later. No one can determine that.

It is best to not worry yourself over that as you need to think positively about the outcome. If you notice any fever, pain, fatigue, night sweats, or other symptoms that indicate a systemic infection, call the OS and do not wait until your appointment date.

I know that's not too reassuring but that is really all you can do unless you have the tooth removed sooner.

Bryanna

Hi fearfulkid
 

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:hug:

Socasusie and ginnie,

Thank you for your advice. I think I may go ahead and consider what you guys said and think positive about the extraction. Thank you :)

Bryanna,

Thank you for the honest response. Ahh I hope it doesn't become systemic before then :( I wonder if I was better off not taking the antibiotics until it was closer to my extraction days because I heard after antibiotics, the infection may come back ten times worse *terrified* ..... Gotta think positive, hopefully things will work out and the infection won't come back before the extraction date.

Are there any other symptoms I should watch out for beside the ones you already mentioned to figure out if the infection came back systemic?

Also, the dentist never mentioned an abscess... Is an infection the same thing? Even though he also said that it isn't a severe infection?

Should I rinse with salt water before the extraction date to prevent the infection from possibly returning? Would that help?

Thanks in advance Bryanna.

Fearfulkid,

I will re post your questions and answer in bold type.

<<<Are there any other symptoms I should watch out for beside the ones you already mentioned to figure out if the infection came back systemic? >>>

IF YOU FEEL UNWELL, THAT COULD BE A SIGN OF INFECTION.

<<<Also, the dentist never mentioned an abscess... Is an infection the same thing? Even though he also said that it isn't a severe infection?>>>

PERTAINING TO THE MOUTH, AN ABSCESS IS A SWOLLEN AREA THAT CONTAINS PUS. IT COULD BE A VISIBLE SWELLING OR IT COULD BE A SMALL OR LARGE CYST THAT HAS FORMED IN THE BONE. I HAVE NO IDEA IF YOU HAVE EITHER OF THOSE THINGS. I DON'T BELIEVE YOU POSTED AN X-RAY.

<<< Should I rinse with salt water before the extraction date to prevent the infection from possibly returning? Would that help? >>>

THE TOOTH IS THE SOURCE OF THE INFECTION. THE ANTIBIOTIC CANNOT CURE THE INFECTION IN THE TOOTH. THE ONLY WAY TO CURE IT IS TO REMOVE THE TOOTH. YOU CAN RINSE WITH SALT WATER AS A GENERAL RINSE BUT IT WILL NOT ALTER THE INFECTION INSIDE OF THE TOOTH.

I hope this information answers your questions :)
You could call the OS office and tell them to put you on a cancellation list as perhaps they could get you in sooner..??

Bryanna

Thanks for the advice, Bryanna. However, if the extraction os earlier, I would have to pay out of pocket because the insurance wont take in effect until September 1... which is a holiday weekend (im thinking i wont be seen until at the earliest september 3rd and thats just my initial appointment).

At this point, I'm just freaking myself out about the infection, complications/infection after extraction, fatality, etc. so I think I'm just gonna leave it here until a week from after my first appointment with my new dentist provider. Although, I'm sure when an apprehensive question comes to my mind, I'll for sure ask you guys.

Glimmer of hope: my original dentist who prescribed the amoxicillin 15 days ago said that the infection isn't severe, but definitely extraction should be the next course of action. Hanging on to these words for the next couple of weeks before my extraction.

I'll keep everyone posted though. *woo breath in, breath out*


Thanks guys,
-fearfulkid

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

Blossom25,

Thank you so much for your encouragement and advice. The more positive things I hear from people, the more I become less stress about this whole ordeal. Thank you again. Just waiting on my initial appointment. I'll keep everyone posted though.

Thank you all,

-FearfulKid

Hi fearful kid
 

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

Aww thank you so much, Ginnie! :) I'm soo so glad I found people like you guys who can offer support and encouragement without judgment. Thank you again.


I'll for sure write about what's going on as soon as I find out more about it myself in a few days time.


<3,

-FearfulKid

I totally get the fear thing, you'll do great! Dentists don't want you to be in pain. Because of the auto-immune disease I have, I'm a nightmare to get numb. Even then, dentists are very, very patient in making sure I'm comfortable. When I tell them I'm horrible to get numb, they give me a shot, wait for it to kick in, and then poke gently to test numbness before they even start working.

I always remind myself this what oral surgeons do all day, every day-they're good at it!

Deep breaths, and remember you'll do fabulous!

Hi guys,

I went for my initial check up today, since my insurance is now in effect.
The extractions that I mentioned still needs to be extracted. However, I found out that I have other cavities that I need to take care of 4 fillings and 1 root canal. On top of that, he suggested to remove my wisdom teeth as well... All four of them because apparently it'll be much harder to remove them later on since I'm already 26, clock's ticking.

Also, the infection is calm as of right now, so it's be the perfect time for extraction etc.

AND on top of alllll that, he found a dark little nodule type thing right under ,my lower /bottom tooth (next to a root canaled molar tooth) the panoramic x ray which he said needs to be referred to a specialist to find out if it's benign or malignant... Or it could just be a bone growth.

At this point, I'm trying to hold back tears (i cried my eyes out in the car parking lot) and in the process, I left out questions that I should've asked.

I wonder what are the chances of this thing being cancerous and what are the chances of it being just a normal bone growth, or maybe even a cyst?

I'm going to call the office tomorrow to ask these questions just to ease my mind. However, I was wondering if any of you had this type of predicament before? Or if Bryanna can shine some light my way?

Also, he said the most important course of action to be taken is to extract the teeth first. Does this mean the dark area or whatever isn't that serious? And my new dds is not very sympathetic as my childhood dds. I'm a crying mess. I just want all of it to be over. :(

Hi Fearful
 

You are overwhelmed. I understand that completely. I think you should take one step at a time, so you don't freak out OK? Bryanna will be here to help address all the issues you have more completely. Take care of the "bump" first. That would be a real relief to know that it isn't anything serious, then go from there. If you post your films, Bryanna can take a look.

Cavities can wait just a bit. However you need to re-consider this RC. Please read all the posts on the dental forum about Root Canals. This isn't the best course of action, as the infection will remain in the tooth, after this is done. The doctors do NOT tell you the truth. RC's are a money making adventure, and in the end a waste of money period.

Pulling the wisdom teeth is necessary when they shove other teeth over. Or crowd them out. Some people retain their wisdom teeth that are in good shape with no issues.

Please seek a second opinion about that. If they have severe disease, then removal is a viable option.

Take care the #1 issue first, and have the bump evaluated. Then you will be better emotionally to take care of the rest. One step at a time. Bryanna will be here and so will I to support you while you face these issues. You are not alone in this. I do care. ginnie:hug:

Hi Fearfulkid,

Although I don't have any dental advice to offer, I wanted to offer my empathy and support. I do understand how overwhelming it can be to have multiple problems going on in your mouth, and not knowing where to begin, or what is the most critical issue. It's very challenging, even for those of us who are twice your age, and sometimes the way dentists relate to patients can leave us even more in doubt of what the next step should be. It does sound like you have a good relationship with your childhood dentist. If that's the case, then maybe you could call him/her and ask for an opinion on how best to proceed? (Also, you could ask why they never suggested you get your wisdom teeth out.)

In any case, take a deep breath. It's a lot to deal with all at once, but although you feel like crying (we all do, at times), you've managed to walk through the steps to get yourself this far. Get yourself sightly more informed (hopefully Bryanna will show up!) so that you feel smart and strong enough to make the right decisions for yourself. And know that there are many people in very similar circumstances who wish you all the best. :hug:

Hi fearfulkid,

I know all of this information can be a bit consuming. But to stay in control, you need to be certain of the information you are given so you can discuss and mutually agree on a priority list of treatment with your dentist. Do not let anyone make you feel pressured in to something. I know you are insurance dependent, but please don't let that over ride all of your decisions.

Re the wisdom teeth extractions..... Are those teeth impacted? Are they partially covered with gum tissue? Are they difficult to clean resulting in an accumulation of plaque? Are they decayed? Is he referring you to an oral surgeon for the removal of them?

Re the cavities....if they are deep, they are a priority. Otherwise they can wait a short while.

Re the tooth that he recommends an root canal on..... What tooth is it and why is he recommending that procedure?

Re the dark area found on the xray near an rc tooth..... did the dentist actually say to have it checked for malignancy?? If he suspected cancer, he would have referred you to an oral surgeon right then and there.
Many people have anomalies in their mouths and most of the time it is not cancer.

You could consult with an oral surgeon about your wisdom teeth and that dark area. He could also take a look at your root canaled teeth, the infected tooth and the tooth that the dentist recommended rc procedure on. That may be the wisest place to start as then you would know what that dark area is.... and he could discuss these other teeth at the same time. Otherwise you are going to worry yourself sick over all of this.

Bryanna

Hi guys,

Thank you guys so much for your ongoing support with my dental ordeal. Your encouraging words helped me beyond what I can describe here on text, I cried and smiled simultaneously because I felt that you guys truly did care about what I was going through... It's very comforting to know forsure.



Update on my predicament:

I had a bad experience with my dental hmo dentist, so I thought about it and just decided to go with my fiancé's dentist and pay out of pocket in exchange for a more comfortable dental procedure/experience. First thing I asked was about the abnormal dark area on X-ray. The dentist said that if its not bothering me, all is well. He said to just keep an eye on it for growth, pain, tenderness, etc. but he thinks that might have been there since birth and at worst it could be an osteomyelitis. I feel better about that.

Next, the wisdom teeth extractions. He said only one needs to come out because it's colliding next to a molar. Two are already out, and he said that's fine. The other one is still under the bone but looks like its coming out just fine. I'm sorry I can't post X-rays, I don't have a working computer right now (just mobile and iPad).

I also have some cavities that need to be filled, need to have my teeth cleaned, and fix a previous root canal crown that was recemented years ago and now has a gap. He said these are not of immediate concern.

Lastly, this coming Tuesday (9/10 at 1pm), I am going to have my upper #3 extracted and #18 root canaled... Both at the same appointment. I was also given 2 pills (.25 each) Halcion (?) to be taken an hour before my appointment, with Vicodin (every six hours as needed)and amoxicillin (500mg 3x a day) for after the procedure.

Guys, I feel more comfortable now. I just wanna know because I forgot to ask and the office is now closed...

1. at what time do i start taking the Vicodin and amoxicillin after the procedure? A day after?
2. Are there any interactions between the three different drugs that I'm taking? I read online that I shouldn't take vicodin for at least 8 hours after I took halcion. If that's the case, I'm nervous about the possible pain I might have?
3. How long will I have the effects of halcion in my system?
4. Will I be able to remember to ask the dentist for a doctors note for work before my procedure or would I be too sleepy already.
5. I read online (yeah not too reliable lol) that .25 mg of halcion is usually enough, but I was given two of these... Concerning my height and weight, I'm assuming the dentist was aware of this and .50mg is safe for me right?

Again, thank you guys so much for any advice, words of encouragement you might have for me. I'm closer and closer to having this burden done and over with. Yay! Lol


Thank you,
-FearfulKid

I'm glad you're comfortable with the dentist-that's so important! I'm sure you'll get answers soon....here's my thoughts.

1. Usually when you get home from the dentist, but before it hurts. You'll still be numb when you get home.
2. I don't know-when in doubt about prescriptions, call your pharmacist. They are so good at drug interactions! Explain you're getting the halicion for dental anxiety, and the pain killer for post extraction pain. They will be able to tell you.
3. In my experience, it's directly related to your anxiety level. The more anxious the faster your body metabolizes it.
4. You might be a little stoned, so have whoever is driving you remember to ask for it. Call the dentist ahead of time and say you'll need the note.
5. Double check with the pharmacist, but with how anxious you are, it's probably why you got the higher dose. Your body will need more to keep you calm.

I'm so proud of you! Dental anxiety is so hard, and you're tackling it and taking it on. You'll do great. One other suggestion is have the soft food lined up ahead of time, so you don't have to get some to the grocery store for you.

Socasusie,

Thank you for your kind words and for answering my questions based on your experience. It means a lot :)

I have to go in tomorrow ... Ahhh so nervous! I'm taking the Halcion (two .50mg) an hour before my procedure. The procedure is from 1-3pm because I have the upper molar extraction and also the planned root canal... If that fails once he gets a better judgment, my dentist said he'll go ahead and go for the extraction. Personally, I want the root canal. I wanna save the tooth, or at least try.

I have a few questions, if you don't mind :) when you had your extractions, how long did you wait to brush your teeth, rinse with salt water, eat/drink, take antibiotics? The following day? Or 24 hours? Oh and is it safe to ice the area right away? Also, is it ok to shower the day after the extraction?

I'm kinda apprehensive to take vicodin as well because I heard it can make you nauseous and I really don't wanna vomit so I can avoid dry sockets, etc. In your experience, was either Motrin or Tylenol OTC sufficient? I'm also hoping that the effects of halcion doesn't linger too long in my system.

Anyway, I should get some sleep. I will update as soon as I feel coherent enough to do so haha.

Thanks again for any help/advice you may have for me :)

Praying and wishing for the best outcome :)

Hi fearfulkid,

A couple of things to think about concerning the medications that your dentist has prescribed for you. Have you ever taken Halcion or Vicodin before? Do you routinely take pain meds for other problems or is this your first time with these meds? People who have never taken these meds or who have taken them on a rare occasion may have a more profound reaction to them compared to those who habitually use them or who have already used them. Your pharmacist may be able to guide you with this. Your weight should also be considered when determining the dosage.

<<<1. at what time do i start taking the Vicodin and amoxicillin after the procedure? A day after?>>

YOU NEED TO ASK THE DENTIST ABOUT STARTING THE AMOXICILLIN AS HE MAY WANT YOU TO START THAT PRIOR TO THE EXTRACTION. ALSO YOU WILL NEED TO EAT WHEN YOU TAKE THESE MEDS TO AVOID UPSETTING YOUR STOMACH. SO PLEASE HAVE SOFT FOODS AVAILABLE FOR YOU PRIOR TO THE APPOINTMENT SO YOU DON'T HAVE TO THINK ABOUT ANY OF THAT LATER ON.

<<<2. Are there any interactions between the three different drugs that I'm taking? I read online that I shouldn't take vicodin for at least 8 hours after I took halcion. If that's the case, I'm nervous about the possible pain I might have? >>>

YES THERE ARE SOME NEGATIVE INTERACTIONS THAT YOUR PHARMACIST CAN EXPLAIN TO YOU. ASK HIM SPECIFICALLY HOW LONG TO WAIT TO TAKE THE VICODIN AFTER THE HALCION. ALSO, IF YOU HAVE NEVER TAKEN THESE MEDS YOU WILL PROBABLY DO FINE WITH THE LOWEST DOSE... PLEASE DON'T THINK THAT TAKING A HIGHER DOSAGE WILL KEEP YOU MORE COMFORTABLE AS THAT IS JUST NOT THE CASE IN PEOPLE WHO DO NOT ROUTINELY TAKE THESE MEDS AS THEY HAVE NOT BUILT UP ANY TOLERANCE TO THEM.

<<<3. How long will I have the effects of halcion in my system? >>>

IN SOMEONE WHO HAS NEVER TAKEN IT.. THE EFFECTS COULD SLOWLY DISSIPATE OVER THE COURSE OF SEVERAL HOURS. ASK THE PHARMACIST AS THERE ARE MANY FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN TAKING A DRUG LIKE THIS.

<<4. Will I be able to remember to ask the dentist for a doctors note for work before my procedure or would I be too sleepy already.>>>

CALL THE OFFICE PRIOR TO THE APPOINTMENT AND ASK THEM TO HAVE THE WORK EXCUSE READY FOR YOU.

<<<5. I read online (yeah not too reliable lol) that .25 mg of halcion is usually enough, but I was given two of these... Concerning my height and weight, I'm assuming the dentist was aware of this and .50mg is safe for me right?>>>

YOUR WEIGHT IS A FACTOR AS WELL AS IF YOU HAVE EVER TAKEN IT BEFORE. NEVER ASSUME THE DENTIST KNOWS WHAT THE PROPER DOSAGE IS... SPEAK TO THE PHARMACIST.

Bryanna

Bryanna,

Thank you for the reply. I did ask the pharmacist about the dosage etc and she said that perhaps the dentist prescribed the max dosage former because they want me to be in a certain state of mind, especially if I'm anxious. I hope that's true.

I've never taken any of these medication before, except for the amoxicillin. I'm hoping for a positive outcome.

Also, the pharmacist said that its ok to take the vicodin with halcion. I'm not really too confident in that but I suppose she knows better than I do.


Is there a substitute painkiller that I can take instead? Like OTC Motrin, or Tylenol? If so what are the typical dosage. My sister is going to ask the dentist today as well, but I just wanna compare.

According to the dentist and the pharmacist information, I am going to take the two tablets of .50mg total of halcion today at 12 before my appointment at 1. I'm scared, but I'm hoping for the best.


Thank you.

Well guys, I did it!

I had the root canal and the extraction just fine :)


I'm a bit groggy but I ate half a yogurt to take my vicodin and amox with water as well and the extraction site started hurting. This was an hour after the procedure. Is this normal? Or do I have dry sockets. Also can I keep changing my gauze everyn30-45 minutes?

HI fearful kid
 

Just take it easy tonight. cool drinks, not hot or cold. No you don't have dry socket yet. That is when the healing doesn't go right. Don't even think like that. You are going to heal just fine. Salt water rinses, later on tomorrow, change gauze as directed. Lay low. You did fine. ginnie:hug:

Ginnie,

Thank you for your ongoing support with me :)

I'm still really numb right now, well except for the extraction site. But hopefully, I can have a speedy and positive healing and recovery.

Oh in your experience, how often did you change your gauze pad? Every hour or less? Thank you.

Also, the halcion helped a lot! Also. For the root canal, they only put a temporary filling, no crown or cap until my next appointment on the 23rd (2 weeks from now) ... I hope that's ok.


I'll keep posting along with my recovery... I hope I don't annoy some people lol
I'm just starting to feel more positive than I've ever felt before :)

Hi fearful
 

No worries. This posting is what NT is all about. To support each other as we go through our issues. I had two removed at once, changed gauze for only about 5 hours, and then it was just pink. No problems in healing. You will be OK. Hang out here while you heal. ginnie:hug:

Hi guys,

Just an update. I took the vicodin and amoxicillin together around 4pm... Wasn't nauseous at all, just drowsy. It's now been 4 hours after my procedure and my lip is still numb and there's still quite a bit of bleeding. Are both of these normal?

Thank you :)!

Can I start eating even if my mouth is still bleeding and numb?