"Wisdom teeth removal"

I was booked in for general anaesthetic at Strathcathro hospital for all four wisdom teeth to be removed. I’ve been on the waiting list for two years so I had been building up the worst case scenario in my head before I was given a date. I’m not good with needles or dentists in general.

On the day of the appointment, from the minute I walked in, I was explained the next step of what was coming or where I needed to go. Other than waiting for other patients to be seen before me, every single person of the process did their part on time and consistently with every patient in. I could see there was a clear system.

I was pretty at ease from the start. Everyone I spoke to strongly introduced themselves, what they do and what they need from me. My details were thoroughly checked including the reason for my visit and my consent and understanding. Everyone was friendly and reassuring throughout and I felt safe/ looked after. 

When I went for the general anaesthetic, the nurse anaesthetic comforted and distracted me and before I knew it I was awake and the job was done. I was advised it has went as well as it could have been and my teeth were out in 7 min! The person who removed the teeth came and chatted to me about concerns they had about my lip (pre existing issue) which wasn’t anything to do with my visit, but I was very impressed by their duty of care to discuss it with me based on the observation during my appointment. 

I felt numbness for about 8 hours which meant I felt very little pain after. Only on days 3-5 did I feel like I had a little toothache, but that is just due to the gums healing. I was given aftercare instructions which I have followed and so far, have had no complications.

Overall, my experience was very positive and that is all down to everyone I interacted with. I was well informed, comforted and reassured by everyone.