Should I Be Put To Sleep For Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Introduction
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to emerge in the back of your mouth. They usually grow in between the ages of 17 and 25, but they can cause various dental problems such as pain, infection, and crowding. Therefore, many people need to have their wisdom teeth extracted. However, the question is whether you should be put to sleep for wisdom teeth extraction or not.
Local Anesthesia
Local anesthesia is the most common type of anesthesia used for wisdom teeth extraction. It involves injecting a numbing medication into the gum tissue surrounding the tooth. This will make the area numb, so you won't feel any pain during the procedure. You will be awake during the extraction and will be able to hear and see what is happening.
Sedation
Sedation is another option for wisdom teeth extraction. It involves taking a medication that will make you feel drowsy and relaxed. You won't feel any pain, and you may not remember much of the procedure. There are different levels of sedation, including oral sedation, nitrous oxide, and IV sedation. Your dentist or oral surgeon will help you choose the best option for you.
General Anesthesia
General anesthesia is the most invasive type of anesthesia used for wisdom teeth extraction. It involves putting you to sleep with medication, and you won't be aware of anything that is happening during the procedure. General anesthesia is usually only used for complicated or multiple extractions, and it requires an anesthesiologist to be present.
Risks
All types of anesthesia have risks associated with them. Local anesthesia is the safest option, but it can cause allergic reactions or damage to the nerves in the mouth. Sedation and general anesthesia can cause complications such as low blood pressure, difficulty breathing, and allergic reactions. Therefore, it is important to discuss your medical history with your dentist or oral surgeon before deciding on the type of anesthesia.
Benefits
The main benefit of being put to sleep for wisdom teeth extraction is that you won't feel any pain or anxiety during the procedure. This can make the experience less stressful and more comfortable for you. In addition, being put to sleep can make the extraction faster and more efficient, which means less time in the chair.
Cost
The cost of being put to sleep for wisdom teeth extraction depends on the type of anesthesia and the length of the procedure. Local anesthesia is the cheapest option, while general anesthesia is the most expensive. Sedation falls somewhere in between. Therefore, it's important to discuss the cost with your dentist or oral surgeon before deciding on the type of anesthesia.
Conclusion
Whether you should be put to sleep for wisdom teeth extraction depends on several factors, including the complexity of the extraction, your medical history, and your personal preference. Local anesthesia is the safest and cheapest option, while sedation and general anesthesia can provide more comfort and efficiency. However, all types of anesthesia have risks, so it's important to discuss your options with your dentist or oral surgeon and choose the best option for you.
