What Type of Anesthesia for Wisdom Teeth Removal at Age 44?

Posted by AllSmiles

I am 44 years old, and my wisdom teeth are starting to hurt for the first time. None of the teeth have fully erupted, but the top and left teeth are sore. I know that I need them removed, but I am concerned about complications and pain. What type of anesthesia would a dentist give me if my anxiety level is high? – Thank you. Nolan from Evanston, IL

Nolan,

Thank you for your question. We understand your concerns as an adult needing wisdom teeth removal. A dentist with oral surgery training or an oral surgeon would need to examine and x-ray your teeth before recommending a sedation level. Still, we will provide a general answer to your question.

What Type of Sedation Will You Get for Adult Wisdom Teeth Removal?

The type of sedation a dentist or oral surgeon will use for wisdom teeth removal depends on several factors, including:

Condition and position of your teeth
Whether teeth are embedded in bone or entangled in nerves
Your anxiety level

What Types of Sedation Are Available?

The available types of sedation for oral surgery, such as wisdom teeth removal, dental implant placement, or gum grafts, include:

Minimal – You can breathe in nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to give you a tingling sensation and a sense of well-being.
Moderate – Your doctor can give you medication in pill form to relax you.
Deep – Intravenous sedation works quickly and deeply. You may not be able to remember what happened during the procedure.
General anesthesia – Oral surgeons use general anesthesia for highly invasive, complex procedures, such as corrective jaw surgery or facial reconstruction. Still, patients with high anxiety and anticipated complications may require general anesthesia for a less-invasive approach. The surgery location would be a hospital or an outpatient surgical center.

Moderate or deep sedation is frequently used for wisdom teeth removal.

Schedule a Wisdom Teeth Evaluation

Schedule a wisdom teeth evaluation with a dentist or oral surgeon. After an examination, x-rays, and discussing your concerns and anxiety, a dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon. Your provider will explain sedation options and which ones will meet your needs.

Best wishes for a smooth surgery and recovery.

Chandler, Arizona, dentist Dr. William Walden sponsors this post.