Wisdom Tooth Removal: Understanding Your Sedation Options

When wisdom teeth are partially or fully impacted, or when they’re causing issues with your overall dental health, removing them is usually the preferred course of action. Once you decide to move forward with wisdom teeth removal, the next choice is which type of anesthesia will be used during your procedure. 

At Cannon Oral Surgery, we offer a range of anesthesia options. We understand that everyone has a unique set of needs regarding oral surgery, and we’re equipped to meet them at our comfortable Chattanooga, Tennessee, office. 

Here’s an overview of the various sedation options you can choose from for your wisdom teeth removal. 

What is the purpose of sedation during oral surgery?

While there have been astounding advancements in oral surgery over the past decade or so, removing wisdom teeth is still a significant procedure that requires special care. Sedation is an important part of the process for several reasons. 

To begin, wisdom teeth removal can take a while, depending on how many teeth you’re having removed and whether or not they are impacted, meaning they’re fully or partially trapped beneath your gums. 

To allow Dr. Cannon to perform the extraction, you need to remain still throughout. Sedation allows you to rest comfortably throughout the procedure. 

Anesthesia also eliminates your ability to perceive pain during the extraction. You’re comfortable and calm from start to finish, which makes the experience easier for you. 

Local anesthesia is an option

Local anesthesia involves injecting a numbing medication into the soft tissue near the extraction site. With this option, you’ll remain awake during the procedure, but you won’t feel any pain. 

Generally, most patients and practitioners do not prefer local anesthesia for wisdom tooth extraction. Remaining awake and aware of what’s happening can be very stressful for patients, and excessive stress isn’t good for you physically or mentally. 

That said, there are cases in which local anesthesia is a safer approach for wisdom tooth extraction. Some people are on medications that make general anesthesia risky, and certain health conditions are not a good fit for general anesthesia. 

During your consultation, Dr. Cannon will discuss your health history and help you choose the right fit for your needs. 

General anesthesia is a common choice

For many people, general anesthesia is the preferred choice for wisdom teeth extractions. With this approach, you’ll receive medication that will help you sleep through your procedure. You won’t be aware of what’s happening, and the next thing you know, you’ll wake up, and the extraction(s) will be completely finished. 

There are several ways to accomplish general anesthesia. One option is to take oral medications before your procedure. You might also inhale medication in gas form during the extraction. Another option involves administering medication intravenously, through a needle and thin medical tubing inserted into one of your veins. 

Dr. Cannon will explain the pros and cons of each option during your consultation, helping you make an informed decision on how to stay comfortable during your wisdom teeth extraction. 

When you’re ready to explore this topic in greater detail, schedule a one-on-one consultation at Cannon Oral Surgery over the phone or via our online booking tool.