Wisdom Teeth Extraction Methods

Wisdom teeth are the teeth that come into existence only after you have reached adulthood. The entire process of the teeth raising its head bit by bit can be very painful indeed. More often than not, the wisdom tooth takes a faulty route and may well become a potential threat to other healthy teeth. Impacted wisdom teeth is a common occurrence and calls for surgical removal of the tooth itself. Complete pulling out of a wisdom tooth requires extensive surgery and you have the option of general or local anesthesia for it. Both the processes have their own pros and cons and your dentist is the most qualified person to take the decision.

Local Anesthesia- This method involves injecting the affected area with Novocaine which succeeds in causing numbness to the gum and surrounding area. Rubbing Novocaine over the region may also cause enough numbness. The anesthetic does not have long lasting effects and will not make you drowsy. In addition, you will be able to witness the entire process of tooth extraction as well. However, you may feel a little pressure even if you do not experience any pain. Another benefit of having the surgery under local anesthesia is that you will not have any dietary restrictions at all.

General Anesthesia- If both you and your dentist agree on general anesthetic for your wisdom tooth surgery, you will be required to refrain from having food the night before the surgery. The anesthetic can be injected or inhaled and will put you to sleep completely. This procedure is advantageous if you want multiple teeth removed or are not comfortable with the idea of watching the dentist pull out your wisdom tooth. There are, however, several drawbacks associated with general anesthetics. The side effects may include nausea, vomiting and infections.

Nitrous Oxide- Laughing Gas as Nitrous Oxide is commonly called is used often in dental surgery. The effect of this gas is short term and it causes a decreased feeling of pain instead of eliminating pain altogether. Some people have short term amnesia after being exposed to nitrous oxide.