Getting Put To Sleep For Wisdom Teeth Removal
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop in the mouth, typically appearing in the late teenage years or early twenties. Some people may not have wisdom teeth at all, while others may have up to four.
Why Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
When wisdom teeth don't have enough room to grow properly, they can become impacted, causing pain, infection, and other dental problems. In some cases, wisdom teeth may be removed as a preventive measure, even if they aren't causing any issues yet.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry involves the use of medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. This can be particularly helpful for wisdom teeth removal, which can be an uncomfortable and anxiety-inducing experience for some patients.
Types of Sedation for Wisdom Teeth Removal
There are several different types of sedation that may be used for wisdom teeth removal:
- Oral sedation: Medication is taken in pill form before the procedure to help the patient relax.
- Intravenous (IV) sedation: Medication is administered directly into the bloodstream through an IV.
- General anesthesia: The patient is put to sleep completely under a trained anesthesiologist's care.
Preparing for Sedation
If you'll be undergoing sedation for wisdom teeth removal, your dentist or oral surgeon will give you specific instructions to follow in the days leading up to the procedure. These may include:
- Not eating or drinking anything for a certain amount of time before the procedure.
- Arranging for someone to drive you home after the procedure.
- Not taking certain medications before the procedure.
The Day of the Procedure
On the day of your wisdom teeth removal, you'll arrive at the dental office or oral surgery center and be checked in by the receptionist. You'll then be taken to a treatment room, where your sedation will be administered.
What to Expect During Sedation
If you'll be undergoing oral sedation, you'll take a pill about an hour before the procedure. You'll start to feel drowsy and relaxed, but you'll still be awake and able to respond to the dentist's instructions.
If you'll be undergoing IV sedation or general anesthesia, the medication will be administered shortly before the procedure. You'll quickly become unconscious and won't be aware of what's happening around you.
The Procedure Itself
Once you're under sedation, the dentist or oral surgeon will begin the procedure. They'll make incisions in your gums to access the wisdom teeth and then carefully remove them from your mouth.
After the Procedure
After the wisdom teeth are removed, you'll be taken to a recovery room to rest until the sedation wears off. You may feel groggy or disoriented, so it's important to have someone drive you home and stay with you until you're fully alert.
Recovering from Wisdom Teeth Removal
It's normal to experience some pain, swelling, and bleeding after wisdom teeth removal. Your dentist or oral surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to care for your mouth in the days following the procedure, including:
- Using ice packs to reduce swelling.
- Taking pain medication as prescribed.
- Eating soft foods and avoiding hard or crunchy foods.
- Keeping your mouth clean by gently brushing and rinsing with salt water.
When to Call Your Dentist
While some pain and discomfort is normal after wisdom teeth removal, there are certain symptoms that may indicate a complication. Contact your dentist or oral surgeon right away if you experience:
- Severe pain that isn't relieved by medication.
- Excessive bleeding that doesn't stop after applying pressure.
- Fever or chills.
- Signs of infection, such as pus or a foul odor from the extraction site.
Conclusion
Sedation can be a helpful tool for patients undergoing wisdom teeth removal, making the procedure less stressful and more comfortable. If you're considering sedation dentistry for your wisdom teeth removal, talk to your dentist or oral surgeon about your options and what to expect.