As if getting four teeth removed at once wasn’t painful enough, wisdom teeth are a special case that require cutting into the gums and bone of the jaw, making it an especially painful process. Thankfully, the use of general anesthesia suppresses pain and patient anxiety by rendering the patient unconscious and preventing any memory of the removal of wisdom teeth. A driver will be needed after the extraction is complete and it may take the better part of the day for the effects of the anesthesia to wear off.
Is Anesthesia really necessary for the removal of wisdom teeth?
Although anesthesia is commonly used in many dental offices for wisdom tooth removal, it is not completely mandatory. Whether a different route is preferable usually depends on the patient as well as how complicated the extraction appears to be. Some patients may not be able to handle anesthesia and that may determine other routes for sedation.
If preferred, there are different methods that are commonly used in the dental office. The effects may be a bit different, but should be just as effective in pain management.
Local anesthesia is a medication injected into the treatment area of the mouth. Blocks pain and keeps patient awake.
Conscious sedation uses oral medication that is taken with an anti-anxiety pill before the extraction begins. The medication will cause drowsiness and may make patients fall asleep during the removal process. You will need a ride to and from the office when using this form of sedation.
Nitrous Oxide (aka laughing gas) will help patients feel relaxed and less nervous while keeping them awake. The effects will wear off quickly, which means you can drive home afterwards. If oral medication is used alongside the laughing gas, which is a normal occurrence, you will need to get a ride home.
Intravenous sedation can be taken orally or through a vein using an IV. This form of sedation works quickly. You will be conscious and able to respond to the dentist, however you might not remember much afterwards. Remember to get a ride home. Do not drive!
Each patient is unique and may have different needs in pain management. Let your dentist know about any fears or past history you may have with sedation or anesthesia and he will determine what is best for you.
Have you been recommended to get your wisdom teeth extracted? Schedule your appointment today with Simply Wisdom Teeth.
Simply Wisdom Teeth helps make wisdom teeth removal simple and hassle free. For more information call (435) 652-1243.
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