It’s normal to feel nervous about having your wisdom teeth taken out. You may be wondering if you’ll feel any pain, how long the surgery will take, and if you’ll be awake during the procedure. At Hill & Ioppolo Oral & Dental Implant Surgery of Lubbock, we will guide you through every step of the wisdom teeth removal process, including your options for anesthesia.
Wisdom teeth removal is a surgical procedure, and you have the option to choose the type of anesthesia or sedation you prefer for your comfort. Dr. Ioppolo is a board-certified oral surgeon trained to administer all types of anesthesia and sedation while monitoring patient health and safety.
Wisdom teeth removal is a complex surgical procedure that can take an hour or more, so we recommend IV sedation or general anesthesia to help you feel comfortable at all times. We often use IV sedation for wisdom teeth removal, but may recommend general anesthesia for more extensive cases or for patients who experience high levels of stress.
IV sedation is a moderate form of sedation administered through your vein. It is fast-acting and will put you into a sleep-like state where you will drift in and out of consciousness. You will be able to breathe on your own and respond to questions asked by your surgeon. Some people call this sedation twilight dentistry or twilight sedation because it feels like you’re in a dream-like state of relaxation. Patients who undergo IV sedation for wisdom teeth removal have little to no memory of the surgery.
General anesthesia is a deep form of sedation and can be administered through a mask or through an IV. It will render you into an unconscious state, and you will require breathing assistance. Because you are unaware of your surroundings and fully unconscious, you will not feel any pain and remember no part of the surgery. When you hear people “going under” for surgery, they are referring to going under general anesthesia.
During your consultation with Dr. Ioppolo, we will talk about your anesthesia and sedation options for your procedure. Factors such as the extent of your wisdom teeth removal and your anxiety about the procedure will help us choose the right option for your comfort. Your comfort and safety are our top priorities. Our team at Hill & Ioppolo Oral & Dental Implant Surgery of Lubbock is happy to answer your questions and make accommodations to ensure a safe and comfortable oral surgery experience.
