Surgical Extraction and Anesthesia

The dentist has determined that not only do you need to have a tooth removed, but you need to have a surgical extraction instead of a simple extraction. Now you have to face what surgery in your mouth is going to mean and what you need to expect from surgery. While the procedure is more complicated than a simple extraction, dental techniques, tools, and medications keep it comfortable and easy for you as the patient. One of the best tools the dentist can use to keep you comfortable before and during the procedure is anesthesia.

Types of Anesthesia Used in Surgical Extraction

Depending on your medical history, the state of the tooth being removed, the health of all the tissue in your mouth, and the location of the tooth, the dentist will work with you to determine the best approach to ensuring you are comfortable and ready for the procedure. There are generally three types of anesthesia used for these procedures:

Local Anesthesia

You can count on the dentist using local anesthesia at the site of the extraction. This will numb the area and prevent you from feeling the exact steps the dentist is taking to remove your tooth. Instead, you will feel pressure but not pain. Local anesthesia will start to work almost immediately and can last for several hours after the procedure. You will know when it starts to wear off but it is critical in helping you have an easy experience in the dental chair.

Sedation (Oral or Intravenous)

If you are someone who already has general anxiety during dental appointments, then you may feel increased anxiety knowing that you are having a more serious procedure than a cleaning and exam. There are different types of sedation and different levels of sedation to keep you comfortable without leaving you unconscious.

-       Oral sedation is a medication the dentist can prescribe for you to take before the procedure. It will leave you drowsy and less alert so you will not be fully aware of what is happening during the procedure. You will be awake but you may have little to no memory of the appointment.

-       Intravenous (IV) sedation is a more intensive medication the dentist gives to you through an injection into your vein. You still will not be fully asleep, but you will be even more relaxed and even less aware of what is happening. IV sedation is a wonderful solution for patients with significant dental anxiety.

General Anesthesia

In movies, when you see a surgeon make a patient count from 10 to 1 before they drift off, this is an example of general anesthesia and its effects. You will be completely unconscious and this will allow the dentist to perform complex and time consuming surgical extractions. A dedicated anesthesiologist is needed to administer the medication safely and monitor your vital signs while you are unconscious. You will need to be a good candidate for general anesthesia and certain medical conditions will require you to consider other options.

No matter which anesthesia option you end up choosing for your procedure, be sure to share all your medical history and concerns with the dentist while you are finalizing your treatment plan.

What is the Difference Between Simple & Surgical Extraction?