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Coping and support
By Mayo Clinic staffA visit to the dentist may cause so much anxiety that you can't get yourself to go, despite the pain you're experiencing. The thought of having a tooth extracted may be overwhelming, but delaying care can lead to serious and permanent problems.
It's important to talk to your dentist about your concerns. Anxiety is common and not something you should be embarrassed about. Discuss with your dentist ways to address your comfort. Many dentists offer ways to ease your anxiety, such as listening to music or watching videos. You may be able to bring along a supportive family member or friend. You can also learn relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and imagery. If you have severe anxiety, talk to your dentist or doctor about medications that may help.
- Wisdom teeth. American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. http://www.aaoms.org/wisdom_teeth.php. Accessed Feb. 22, 2010.
- Marciani RD. Third molar removal: An overview of indications, imaging, evaluation, and assessment of risk. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Clinics of North America. 2007;19:1.
- Bagheri SC, et al. Extraction versus nonextraction management of third molars. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Clinics of North America. 2007;19:15.
- Esposito M, et al. Impacted wisdom teeth. Clinical Evidence (Online). 2008. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=19450307. Accessed Feb. 22, 2010.
- Gingivitis. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merck.com/mmpe/sec08/ch095/ch095c.html. Accessed March 3, 2010.
- Caries. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merck.com/mmpe/sec08/ch095/ch095b.html. Accessed March 3, 2010.
- Pogrel MA, et al. White paper on third molar data (2007). American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. http://www.aaoms.org/media.php. Accessed Feb. 27, 2010.
- Farish SE, et al. General technique of third molar removal. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Clinics of North America. 2007;19:23.
- Postextraction problems. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. Accessed Feb. 22, 2010.
- Dental anxiety. American Dental Association. http://www.ada.org/public/topics/anxiety.asp. Accessed March 3, 2010.
- Carr AB (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. March 10, 2010.
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