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Should I Go Under For Wisdom Teeth Removal

Introduction

Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure that many people have to undergo. It is often recommended by dentists to prevent future dental problems. However, the thought of undergoing surgery can be daunting for some. One of the biggest questions that people have when it comes to wisdom teeth removal is whether they should go under anesthesia or not. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of going under for wisdom teeth removal.

A Picture Of A Patient Undergoing Wisdom Teeth Removal

What is wisdom teeth removal?

Wisdom teeth removal is a dental procedure that involves the extraction of one or more of the third molars. These are the teeth located at the back of the mouth and usually emerge in the late teenage years or early twenties. In some cases, these teeth can cause problems such as pain, infection, and damage to neighboring teeth, which is why they are often removed.

A Picture Of Wisdom Teeth

Types of Anesthesia

There are two types of anesthesia that can be used during wisdom teeth removal: local and general. Local anesthesia involves the injection of a numbing agent into the area around the tooth being removed. This allows the patient to remain conscious during the procedure but not feel any pain. General anesthesia, on the other hand, involves the use of medication to put the patient to sleep during the procedure.

A Picture Of Anesthesia Equipment

Pros of Going Under Anesthesia

One of the biggest advantages of going under anesthesia is that you will not feel any pain during the procedure. This can be a huge relief for those who are anxious or fearful of dental procedures. It can also make the procedure go more smoothly since the patient is not moving around or reacting to pain.

Another advantage of going under anesthesia is that it allows the dentist to work more efficiently. Since the patient is not moving, the dentist can focus on the task at hand and complete the procedure more quickly.

A Picture Of A Dentist Working On A Patient

Cons of Going Under Anesthesia

One of the biggest disadvantages of going under anesthesia is that it can be more expensive than local anesthesia. This is because the cost of the anesthesia medication and the anesthesiologist's fee are added to the cost of the procedure.

Another disadvantage of going under anesthesia is that it carries more risks than local anesthesia. There is a small risk of complications such as allergic reactions, breathing problems, and heart problems.

A Picture Of A Risk Assessment Chart

Local Anesthesia

Local anesthesia is a good option for those who are concerned about the cost or risks associated with general anesthesia. With local anesthesia, the patient remains conscious but does not feel any pain during the procedure.

Another advantage of local anesthesia is that it has fewer risks than general anesthesia. There is no risk of complications such as allergic reactions, breathing problems, or heart problems.

A Picture Of A Local Anesthesia Injection

Pros of Local Anesthesia

One of the biggest advantages of local anesthesia is that it is less expensive than general anesthesia. This is because there are no added costs for anesthesia medication or an anesthesiologist's fee.

Another advantage of local anesthesia is that the recovery time is usually shorter than with general anesthesia. Since the patient is not put to sleep, they can usually resume their normal activities shortly after the procedure.

A Picture Of A Patient Recovering From Surgery

Cons of Local Anesthesia

One of the biggest disadvantages of local anesthesia is that the patient may feel some discomfort or pressure during the procedure. This can be unsettling for some patients and may cause anxiety or stress.

Another disadvantage of local anesthesia is that it may not be effective for all patients. Some patients may require a higher dose of anesthesia or may need to switch to general anesthesia if they experience too much pain or discomfort during the procedure.

A Picture Of A Patient Experiencing Discomfort

Conclusion

When it comes to wisdom teeth removal, the decision to go under anesthesia or not is ultimately up to the patient. It is important to weigh the pros and cons of each option and make an informed decision based on your personal preferences and medical history. Whether you choose to go under or not, it is important to follow your dentist's instructions for post-operative care to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.

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