What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction Under Sedation

Tooth extraction is sometimes necessary for a variety of reasons. A tooth may be too damaged to save in some cases, making extraction the only option. Teeth are sometimes extracted to make more room in a small mouth. Whatever the reason for the procedure, some tooth extractions are performed under sedation, whether out of necessity or personal preference. 

If you have an upcoming tooth extraction that will involve sedation, you may be wondering what to expect. This overview of the process will help you understand what is involved to help ease any nerves or anxiety you may be feeling. 

What is Sedation Dentistry? 

Sedation dentistry is the use of medically induced relaxation for dental procedures. Various types of sedation may be used that provide varying levels of sedation from mild to deep. You may feel fully aware but relaxed, or completely unaware as if you are asleep. The type of sedation used for your procedure will depend on a few factors, such as the invasiveness of the procedure and how anxious you feel. 

Types of Sedation We Offer 

• Nitrous oxide: a light level of sedation administered through a mask over your nose, providing a relaxed, calming feeling that wears off in a matter of minutes once the gas is removed. 
• IV sedation: a deeper level of sedation administered through a vein in your arm or hand, allowing you to be completely unaware of the procedure and requiring rest and recovery for the remainder of the day. 

Why Choose Sedation for Tooth Extraction? 

• Dental anxiety. If you are feeling anxious about the procedure, sedation can help you relax and have a more comfortable experience. 
• Impacted teeth. Teeth that are stuck under the gums require surgery to remove. Sedation can make this more invasive type of extraction easier for you. 
• Less local anesthesia needed. While under sedation you may not need as much local anesthesia for the extraction, meaning you won’t have to wait as long for the numbness to wear off. 

How to Prepare for Sedated Tooth Extraction 

No preparation is required for nitrous oxide sedation, as it wears off quickly with little to no side effects. For IV sedation, the following will be required: 

• Fasting. It is important that you don’t eat for 12 hours before IV sedation. 
• Transportation. You will need someone to drive you home after the procedure. 
• After care. Depending on how you feel and your age, you may need someone to stay with you following your procedure to provide care. 

What Happens During the Procedure? 

The first step is to administer sedation, whatever type you have chosen. Once the sedation has taken effect, the tooth extraction process begins. Local anesthesia is administered if necessary. For impacted teeth an incision is made in the gums to access the tooth. Then the tooth is gently loosened from the socket and removed. The gum tissue will be sutured over the empty socket to promote healing. 

Post-Procedure Recovery and Care 

After the procedure you will need to bite down on gauze until bleeding fully stops. You will most likely need to continue applying gauze after you get home, changing it out until it comes out clean. Rest with your head propped up above the level of your heart. Wait until you are no longer numb to eat anything that requires chewing. A soft diet is typically best for the first few days following your procedure. You will require more rest after IV sedation than after nitrous oxide, as the effects of IV sedation take longer to wear off. 

Contact Braasch Oral Surgery

Sedation can be a helpful tool for tooth extractions, making the procedure less intimidating for patients who experience dental anxiety. If you’d like to learn more about sedation before your tooth extraction procedure, call Braasch Oral Surgery at 603-657-1984 or contact us with questions. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Extractions with Sedation

Will I remember the procedure afterwards?

If you have nitrous oxide you will most likely remember the experience, but not necessarily the details. If you have IV sedation you probably won’t remember anything about the procedure afterwards. 

Is IV sedation safe?

Yes, IV sedation is safe for most patients. A complete medical history will be gathered first to eliminate any potential health concerns that would make it unsafe for any individual. Your vitals are carefully monitored throughout the procedure by our experienced team. 

Braasch Oral Surgery provides a wide variety of oral surgery procedures, including tooth extraction and wisdom teeth removal. Our sedation options are designed to improve the patient experience, reducing anxiety and making treatment more comfortable. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.