What Kind Of Sedation Is Used For Tooth Extraction?

Do you feel uneasy about undergoing a “tooth extraction”? Well, you are definitely not an exception. Most people associate this procedure with severe pain and discomfort. However, modern dentistry has made the procedure less stressful, seamless, and painless. What’s the secret? Sedation.

It will send you into a state of relaxation. The dentist might choose different methods based on the complexity of your procedure. Read this blog to learn about the varieties and their benefits.

Local Anesthesia: Solution For Simple Procedures

Feeling anxious even about a simple dental procedure? Local anesthesia can help. It will numb your operation site, preventing any discomfort. The most popular local anesthetic is lidocaine. 

You can choose a method if the idea of being awake throughout a tooth extraction makes you uncomfortable.

Can Nitrous Oxide Calm You Down?

Have you heard about laughing gas or nitrous oxide? It is a gentle sedative that can reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. This method of relaxation will keep you awake but detach you from any anxiety. 

Moreover, you will feel no drowsiness, making it perfect for those with busy schedules. Just find somebody to drive you home after this procedure.

Oral Sedation: To Soothe Your Nerves

The dentist might offer you oral sedation if they think that you need something stronger than nitrous oxide. You need to take a prescription medication approximately one hour prior to the treatment. The medications are typically from the benzodiazepine family.

This will make you drowsy but keep you responsive. This form of sedation lowers anxiety, giving the impression that the treatment is shorter than it actually is. 

While you won’t remember the entire tooth extraction process, you won’t be completely unconscious, either. So, this is a good middle ground for you if you are a nervous person.

IV Sedation For Deeper Relaxation

IV sedation is immediately absorbed into your bloodstream and gives you a profoundly calming effect. You will stay conscious but in a dreamlike state. If you have severe phobia, choose this option since you won’t remember most of the dental treatment.

This form of anesthesia is frequently used for more complex tooth extractions like wisdom tooth removal and multiple extractions.

General Anesthesia For Deep Sleep

General anesthesia is used for major surgeries or individuals who just don’t want to be conscious. You will stay completely unconscious and won’t hear, feel, or recall anything from the process. A qualified anesthesiologist is present throughout the treatment to ensure safety.

You do need a considerable amount of time to recover after this and might require assistance after the treatment. Take rest and avoid strenuous activities to recover quickly.

Which Sedation Option Is Best for You?

Wondering which option is best for you? If you have mild anxiety, then nitrous oxide should do the job for you. General anesthesia or intravenous sedation might be the best option if you are undergoing complex treatments or have crippling anxiety.

With modern sedation methods, you do not need to worry about extractions, even the complex ones being too painful. The dentist will check your medical history and health using advanced dental technologies to take the best action.

Are you ready to remove your damaged tooth? Contact us for a consultation today!