Do You Need Sedation for Tooth Extraction?

Are you about to undergo a tooth extraction procedure? It happens more often than you might realize! Dental caries are the most common reason for tooth extractions (accounting for 52.2% of procedures).

However, dentists also recommend this procedure for patients with periodontal disease or damaged teeth. Don’t worry; you don’t have to remain awake. Consider sedation for tooth extraction instead.

Do you need dental sedation for your procedure? Read on to find out!

Types of Sedation

Before your tooth extraction procedure, your dentist will review the different dental sedation options available. Sedation dentistry is often used to help patients manage their anxiety. It can also reduce the likelihood of pain after the procedure.

If you’re having a tooth extracted, schedule a consultation appointment with your dentist before the surgery. They can help you weigh the pros and cons of each sedation option. 

Make sure you understand the potential side effects of each option before making your choice. Regardless of which you choose, you’ll experience no pain throughout the operation. However, you might feel a little sore afterward. 

Here are a few types of sedation your dentist might recommend for your upcoming tooth extraction procedure.

We provide both oral sedation and IV sedation at our offices. Both are conscious forms of sedation.

Local Anesthesia

Local anesthesia is the most common type recommended for tooth extraction procedures.

During your procedure, an anesthesiologist will inject a numbing medication into the area surrounding your gums and tooth. The injection should feel like a small pinch or sting. It shouldn’t be painful.

Local anesthesia:

• Is safe for all ages
• Reduces recovery times
• Doesn’t require special equipment
• Has little risk of complications
• Has few long-term side effects

After the procedure, you might notice a tingling or throbbing sensation in your cheek or lip. This should only last for an hour or two.

IV Sedation

IV, or intravenous sedation, involves injecting a sedative directly into your bloodstream.

The dental team will continuously monitor the sedative during the procedure. They’ll ensure you’re receiving the proper dose for optimal comfort.

With IV sedation, you’ll remain in a semi-awake state. This option can reduce your anxiety. However, you won’t need assistance to breathe or maintain normal health rhythms during the procedure. 

Since you’ll remain conscious during the procedure, you can give the dentist or hygienist signals to answer questions. You likely won’t remember the treatment once the sedation wears off. Effects usually wear off by the next morning. 

However, IV sedation doesn’t numb pain. Your dentist might recommend an anesthetic and a sedative during the procedure. 

This option is ideal for patients who have dental anxiety or a strong gag reflex. It can be difficult for a dentist to perform extractions on patients with a strong gag reflex.

IV sedation is both safe and effective. It’s also fast-acting. If you’re concerned about spending too much time at a dental office, talk to your dentist about IV sedation.

This is also an ideal option if you have to remain in a chair for an extended period of time.

Oral Conscious Sedation

If your dentist recommends oral conscious sedation, you’ll take medication orally before your procedure. Though this option is most commonly used for tooth extractions, it’s also recommended for other procedures.

After taking the medication, you should feel calm and relaxed during the procedure. You won’t have to feel anxious or nervous about the extraction process. You might feel mild drowsiness.

Sleepiness is a normal side effect.

This option doesn’t require a needle or IV. It also offers a quicker recovery time compared with general anesthesia. If you choose this option, make sure you have a friend or family member available to take you home following the appointment. 

Nitrous Oxide Sedation

If your dentist recommends nitrous oxide sedation, you’ll breathe gas in through a mouthpiece or mask before the procedure. Nitrous oxide can help you feel relaxed during the procedure. If you tend to experience dental anxiety, this is an ideal option.

About 36% of people in the US have a fear of dental treatment. Another 12% have an extreme fear of treatment. Patients develop dentophobia due to:

• Family history
• Feeling embarrassed
• Feeling helpless
• Hearing someone else express their fears
• Traumatic history
• Past negative experiences

Dental anxiety can keep you from getting the treatment you need. Delaying your tooth removal procedure could compromise your dental health. 

Nitrous oxide sedation won’t put you to sleep. However, it will take away some of your awareness during the procedure. Sedation usually lasts 30 minutes to an hour.

How long the effects last will vary based on the dose and whether other medications were used. 

What To Expect

Once you arrive at the dentist’s office, you’ll get comfortable in the dental chair. Your dental team will then administer the sedative. This process will vary based on the type of sedative used.

During the tooth extraction procedure, the dental team will monitor your oxygen levels and vital signs. They’ll also ensure your airway remains open, allowing you to breathe on your own.

You’ll remain safe during the entire procedure.

After the tooth removal procedure is complete, you’ll need to get a ride home from a friend or family member. It’s normal to feel a little groggy after the procedure. Effects should subside by morning.

Let your dentist know if you experience any side effects following the procedure.

Dental sedation can help ensure a fast, easy operation. You can get your tooth removed without dental anxiety getting in the way. If you’re feeling anxious or stressed about your procedure, talk to your dentist about sedation options. 

Consider Sedation for Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction procedures don’t have to feel scary. Instead of letting your anxiety take over, consider sedation for tooth extraction procedures. Dental sedation can ease your fear and anxiety while ensuring you receive the care you need.

Talk to your Lexington dentist about dental sedation today.

Ready to schedule your next tooth extraction appointment? We can’t wait to see you!

Contact us today to schedule your appointment at one of our Lexington locations!