Most people have between zero and four wisdom teeth hidden in their gums. Sometimes, they fail to erupt correctly, causing infection. This is when removal is suggested. But what sedation is used for wisdom teeth?
There is no single solution for anesthesia and sedation. Your best choice will depend on your health history and personal needs. Let’s discuss these options:
What Drugs Do They Give You for Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Your doctor will numb your mouth with a shot of local anesthetic like novocaine, lidocaine, or mepivacaine. You might also breathe in nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, to help you relax or even sleep during the surgery. You should feel awake again shortly after it’s over.
Oral Sedation for Wisdom Teeth
Some patients prefer to take oral sedation pills before their dental procedure. These medications (like Valium, Halcion, Ativan, etc.) are usually taken about 30 minutes to an hour before the appointment.
The duration of their effects varies, so patients need someone to drive them to and from the dental office. Oral sedation is more effective than laughing gas, but its effectiveness and duration are unpredictable. Therefore, most dental professionals recommend IV sedation instead.
What IV Sedation is Used for Wisdom Teeth?
Ketamine starts working in about a minute and lasts around 10 minutes. While it’s working, you won’t feel much because it blocks pain. This makes ketamine a very effective IV sedation for short, painful procedures like tooth extractions.
Levels of Sedation
According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, sedation is sometimes used when treating impacted wisdom teeth. Depending on the medications and how much you get, you might have one of three levels of sedation.
- Mild Sedation
Your dentist might suggest a mix of oxygen and nitrous oxide, called laughing gas, to help you stay relaxed during your procedure. You will wear a mask to breathe it in comfortably. You will still be awake but feeling at ease. - Moderate Sedation
This method, also known as IV sedation, uses medication through a vein to put you in a state between being awake and asleep. You will be relaxed and won’t feel pain during the procedure. You might not remember much afterward. - Heavy Sedation
Deep sedation is like moderate sedation but puts you in a deeper sleep. You won’t easily respond to things happening around you, but you’re not completely unconscious. You will likely wake up with no memory of the procedure.
Post- IV Sedation
If you’re worried about getting anesthesia or sedation, know that your dentist or oral surgeon has special training to give these drugs and watch over you. They care about keeping you safe and will do everything they can to lower any risks.
Your dentist will check to make sure you’re healthy enough for the procedure, which might involve looking at your health history, checking your blood pressure and pulse, and asking about any medications you’re on.
Final Word
When people ask, “What sedation is used for wisdom teeth?” It is important to remember that there is no single answer. The choice totally depends on your overall health, medical history, and requirements.
Visit Our doctor of dental surgery, Dr. Darius B. Smith, at Village Park Dentistry. Our doctor specializes in oral surgery and IV sedation. Call us at (281) 376-4444 to book an appointment.