It's a fact of life that if you have wisdom teeth, they often need to be extracted. However, many patients are concerned about the process, especially regarding sedation. Is sedation necessary? What types of sedation dentistry are available? Here's what you need to know about your procedure to make an informed decision. 

Is Sedation Necessary for Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

The primary purpose of dental sedation is to help alleviate anxiety and stress associated with dental procedures. This is especially important in the case of wisdom tooth extraction, which can be more involved than other dental procedures due to their hard-to-reach location in the back of the mouth. In addition, some people feel uncomfortable when their mouth is open for long periods, such as when multiple teeth are being extracted at once. So, while sedated wisdom teeth extraction is not necessary for your dentist to do their job, it does make the experience more comfortable for you.

Are There Different Types of Sedation Dentistry?

There are several different types of sedation dentistry available for patients who require it during a procedure, including:

• Oral conscious sedation: This type of sedation involves taking a pill prior to the appointment that will help you relax during your visit.
• Nitrous oxide: Often called laughing gas, nitrous oxide is administered through a mask placed over your nose and helps reduce anxiety and pain without putting you completely under.
• IV sedation: For completed sedated wisdom teeth extraction, some patients opt for IV sedation, which is administered intravenously and provides a deeper level of relaxation while allowing you to remain conscious throughout the entire process.
• General anesthesia: While only used in extreme cases, general anesthesia can be administered in a hospital setting for dental procedures, like sedated wisdom teeth extraction.

What Is the Recovery Process Like with Dental Sedation?

The recovery process with sedation dentistry is generally very short and simple. Depending on the type of dental sedation used, you may be asked to remain in your chair for a few minutes after the procedure to clear your head, or you may be cleared to leave immediately. If you opt for general anesthesia, you will be given plenty of time to rest in the post-operative area before being discharged from the hospital. 

Wisdom tooth extraction can be an intimidating experience for some patients, but understanding all your options for sedation dentistry can help make it easier. Talk with your dentist about which option might be best for you before scheduling your sedated wisdom teeth extraction appointment.