Are You Put To Sleep For Wisdom Teeth Removal
Introduction
Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure that is performed to remove the third molars located at the back of your mouth. These teeth usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25, and in some cases, they can cause problems such as decay, gum disease, and impaction. If you need to have your wisdom teeth removed, you may be wondering whether you will be put to sleep for the procedure.
Anesthesia Options
There are different types of anesthesia options available for wisdom teeth removal. The type of anesthesia you receive will depend on your individual needs and preferences as well as the complexity of the procedure. The most common options include:
- Local anesthesia: This involves numbing the area around the wisdom teeth with a local anesthetic injection. You will be awake during the procedure, but you will not feel any pain.
- Sedation anesthesia: This involves using medication to relax you and make you drowsy during the procedure. You may be awake, but you will feel very relaxed and may not remember the procedure.
- General anesthesia: This involves putting you to sleep with medication during the procedure. You will not be aware of the procedure and will not feel any pain.
Local Anesthesia
If you opt for local anesthesia, your dentist or oral surgeon will inject a local anesthetic into the area around your wisdom teeth. This will numb the area and prevent you from feeling any pain during the procedure. You will be awake during the procedure and will be able to respond to your dentist’s instructions. Local anesthesia is a safe and effective option for most patients, and it is often used for simple wisdom teeth extractions.
Sedation Anesthesia
If you opt for sedation anesthesia, your dentist or oral surgeon will give you medication to help you relax and make you drowsy. The medication may be administered intravenously or orally, depending on your individual needs. You will be awake during the procedure, but you will feel very relaxed and may not remember the procedure. Sedation anesthesia is a good option for patients who feel anxious or nervous about the procedure.
General Anesthesia
If you opt for general anesthesia, you will be put to sleep with medication during the procedure. This is usually done with an intravenous injection. You will not be aware of the procedure and will not feel any pain. General anesthesia is a good option for patients who have a complex wisdom teeth extraction or who feel extremely anxious or nervous about the procedure.
Risks and Complications
Like any medical procedure, there are some risks and complications associated with wisdom teeth removal. These can include:
- Numbness or tingling in the tongue, lips, or face
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Swelling
- Damage to nearby teeth, nerves, or sinuses
Conclusion
Whether you are put to sleep for wisdom teeth removal depends on your individual needs and preferences as well as the complexity of the procedure. Local anesthesia, sedation anesthesia, and general anesthesia are all safe and effective options for most patients. Talk to your dentist or oral surgeon about which anesthesia option is right for you.
