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Managing Patient Anxiety and Pain in Periodontal Surgery |
Posted on 3/15/2024 by Weo Admin |
If your dentist says you need periodontal (gum) surgery, you may feel stressed. The good news is there are things you can do and that your oral surgeon can do to make the procedure as calm and comfortable as possible.
Causes of Anxiety About Gum Surgery
It is normal to have anxiety about medical procedures like gum surgery. Common worries patients may experience include fear of potential complications arising, anxiety about experiencing pain or discomfort during the surgery, feelings of embarrassment regarding the state of their gum health that requires this treatment, or general unease toward dental work procedures. Experiencing stress can exacerbate existing health conditions, so it is important to address these types of worries and concerns proactively before undergoing treatment.
How to Ease Anxiety Before Gum Surgery
There are steps you can take as a patient ahead of your gum surgery to ease anxiety, such as asking your oral surgeon questions to understand the procedure better, the reasons it is required, and what to expect during recovery. Voicing any embarrassments or previous negative dental experiences you may have had allows your dental surgeon to offer you additional support. Relaxation techniques like focused deep breathing, meditation, or positive visualization prior to surgery may also help calm nerves.
Controlling Pain and Discomfort During Gum Surgery
During the actual gum surgery itself, your oral surgeon will also take measures to maximize your comfort and minimize any potential pains. Local anesthetics administered ensure you do not feel any discomfort while the procedure is being performed. Prescription medications may be provided to help control pain afterward during the initial healing stages. At the same time, the application of ice packs against swelling on the cheeks can bring relief in the days following as well.
Working Together for Successful Treatment
Managing patient worries regarding gum surgery requires collaborative efforts between both the patient and their oral health team. Being forthcoming about any fears or concerns allows your oral surgeon and dentist to, in turn, provide you with the appropriate level of emotional support, education on your specific procedure, and options for optimal pain control throughout the process, leading to the best possible treatment experience and outcomes.
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