Do You Have to Go Under Anaesthesia for Wisdom Teeth Removal?

The thought of having your wisdom teeth removed may be unfamiliar territory for you, and you might be wondering how your dentist will make the experience as painless and comfortable as possible.

Most people will need to have their wisdom teeth removed at some point in their lives, but what if you’re afraid of the dentist or don’t want to go under anaesthesia?

And if that’s the case for you, your next question is probably, “Do I REALLY have to go under anaesthesia?” Here’s what you need to know.

What Is Wisdom Tooth Removal?

Wisdom tooth removal is a common dental procedure that helps prevent problems associated with wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that erupt in the back of the mouth, typically during the late teens or early twenties.

While wisdom teeth can be a valuable asset to the mouth, they are often misaligned or crowded when they grow in an awkward angle, which can lead to problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, cavities, and tooth crowding. Removing a problematic wisdom tooth can help prevent these problems and preserve the mouth’s health.

An experienced dentist usually performs the procedure, which involves numbing the area around the wisdom tooth and removing the tooth itself. In some cases, wisdom teeth may be removed in stages, depending on their position in the mouth.

Wisdom tooth removal is a safe way to protect oral health from possible complications of troublesome wisdom tooth. Your dentist will do necessary steps, such as administering anaesthesia, to ensure you’re comfortable during the process.

Do You Need An Anaesthesia for Wisdom Teeth Removal?

When it comes to wisdom teeth removal, patients will always need some form of anaesthesia. The question is really which type of anaesthesia is best suited for the procedure – local or general?

Local anaesthesia numbs the area around the wisdom teeth, while general anaesthesia puts the patient into a deep sleep. While local anaesthesia is generally considered to be safer, wisdom teeth removal can sometimes be a complicated procedure and may require general anaesthesia.

Ultimately, the best type of anaesthesia will be determined by the dentist based on the individual case. Either way, patients can rest assured that they will be completely pain-free during wisdom teeth removal.

Types of Anaesthesia for a Painless Wisdom Teeth Removal

One of the first things to consider when having wisdom teeth removed is what type of anaesthesia to use. It will be determined based on factors such as the complexity of the extraction, the patient’s medical history, and personal preferences.

The three most common types of anaesthesia during wisdom teeth removal surgery are:

• Local anaesthesia
• General anaesthesia
• Sedation

Local Anaesthesia
Most wisdom tooth extractions are performed under local anaesthesia, which numbs the area around your wisdom teeth. This type of anaesthesia is usually considered to be very safe.

However, a few potential risks are associated with wisdom tooth removal under local anaesthesia, including airway obstruction, tachycardia and hypertension.

General Anaesthesia

General anaesthesia puts the patient to sleep during the wisdom teeth removal procedure and is usually used for more complex extractions. This type of anaesthesia is considered to be safe, allowing the dental team to safely remove your wisdom teeth without you feeling any severe pain.

There is also some risk of complications associated with wisdom tooth removal under general anaesthesia, including airway obstruction, aspiration and PONV (postoperative nausea and vomiting).

Sedation Options
There are sedation options for wisdom teeth removal. These include IV, oral, and inhaled/ nitrous oxide.

Most people opt for IV sedation because it provides the deepest level of sedation, making you feel drowsy during the procedure. This means that you may be asleep during the procedure and won’t feel any pain.

Oral sedation is a good middle ground option – you’ll be drowsy and relaxed, but you may be able to remember some of what went on during the procedure.

Inhaled/nitrous oxide is the lightest level of sedation – you’ll be conscious and able to follow directions, but you may feel lightheaded or dizzy.

No matter which option you choose, our team will make sure that you’re comfortable and safe throughout the wisdom teeth removal process.

Before having your wisdom teeth removed, you should speak to your dentist about what to expect, the risks, and the benefits of the different types of anaesthesia. Also, keep in mind that the type of anaesthesia used will affect the overall cost of the procedure.

What to Expect Before the Procedure of Wisdom Tooth Removal

If you’re scheduled for wisdom tooth removal, you may be wondering what to expect. It’s best to come well informed so you can prepare yourself.

Before your tooth extraction procedure, you will meet with your dentist. At this meeting, your dentist will take an x-ray to figure out the position of your wisdom teeth and see if they’re impacted. If they are, wisdom tooth removal may be recommended.

Your dentist will:

• Discuss any questions you may have about tooth extraction and recovery from wisdom teeth removal.
• Ask you about any medications you take and go over your health history.
• Discuss the type of anesthesia they will use for the tooth extraction surgery.
• Schedule an appointment for wisdom tooth removal.

Before the procedure, you need to:

• Arrange for child care or pet care for the day of your procedure.
• Take vacation days or call in sick to work.
• Make plans for assignments ahead of time if you are in school.
• Make arrangements for a ride home after your actual surgery.

How Does A Dentist Remove A Wisdom Tooth?

The wisdom tooth removal procedure is typically performed by an experienced dentist in dental clinics or an out-patient treatment centre. It generally takes about 45 minutes to an hour.

The wisdom tooth is removed using several steps.

1. The dentist will numb the area around the wisdom tooth.
2. They will make an incision in the gum tissue and remove any bone blocking access to the tooth.
3. Once the tooth is exposed, the dentist will then use a special dental instrument to loosen it before extracting it. In some cases, wisdom teeth may be removed in sections.
4. Once the tooth has been removed, the dentist makes sure that no tooth fragment is left. They will then close the incision with stitches.
5. Gauze is placed over the extraction site to help control bleeding.
6. The dentist will provide you with after-care instructions.

Wisdom tooth removal is usually a relatively simple and straightforward procedure. However, as with any dental surgery, there are some risks involved. These include infection, damage to nearby teeth, and nerve damage. Your dentist will discuss these risks with you prior to your procedure.

How Long Does Wisdom Tooth Removal Take?

Unfortunately, the answer to this question isn’t as straightforward as we would like it to be, as the length of time wisdom tooth removal takes can vary depending on several factors.

In general, wisdom tooth removal is considered a relatively simple and common procedure that can be completed in less than an hour. However, if the wisdom teeth are impacted or especially difficult to remove, the procedure may take longer. Additionally, if multiple wisdom teeth are removed at once, it may take longer.

As a result, the best way to get an accurate estimate of how long your wisdom tooth removal will take is to schedule a consultation with your dentist. They will be able to assess your situation and give you a more specific estimate.

What to Expect After Wisdom Teeth Removal

In the days following the surgical procedure, you may experience some discomfort and soreness. You’ll likely need to take over-the-counter pain medication for pain relief and eat soft foods for a few days. You may also have some swelling and bruising. These side effects are normal and should resolve within a week or so.

It’s important to take care of your mouth after wisdom tooth removal. Be sure to brush and floss carefully, and rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash or a warm salt water solution. You should also avoid smoking, strenuous activity, drinking from straws, and eating hot and spicy foods. Hard, crunchy or chewy foods should also be avoided to prevent food particles from getting inside the tooth socket.

With proper care, your mouth will heal quickly, and you’ll be back to your normal routine, doing normal activities in a short period of time.

The Cost of Removing a Wisdom Tooth

While wisdom tooth removal can be beneficial, it can also be expensive. The price of wisdom tooth removal can vary depending on several factors, including the number of wisdom teeth being removed and the complexity of the procedure.

Generally, wisdom tooth removal in Australia typically costs between $200 and $600. However, some patients may need to pay more depending on their situation. For example, patients who require sedation or who have impacted wisdom teeth may need to pay additional fees.

Additionally, the simple extraction of all four teeth using a local anesthetic costs an average of $2,322. Wisdom tooth extraction under general anesthesia can range from $1,500 to $3,000 per tooth.

If you are considering wisdom tooth removal, it is important to speak with your dentist to get an accurate estimate of fees related to the procedure.

Final Thoughts

If you’re considering having your wisdom teeth removed, it’s important to understand the different types of anaesthesia available.

Most people can have their wisdom teeth extracted under local anaesthesia, which is a relatively painless and simple procedure. However, you may need a general anaesthetic if your extraction is more complicated or complex.

Call Maylands Dental Centre today and talk to one of our friendly dentists about wisdom teeth surgery and the different types of anaesthesia available to you. We also offer a wide range of dental services for all your dental needs.

Book a dental consult through our website or call us at (08) 9370 5464. We look forward to helping you get the dental care you need!