That nagging pain in the back of your mouth isn’t going away, and you’re starting to suspect what your dentist might tell you: it’s time for those wisdom teeth to come out. For many patients, this news brings immediate concerns about pain, recovery time, and the procedure itself. However, when you have a general understanding of what you can expect from wisdom teeth removal with sedation, you can put your mind at ease!
At Burien Signature Dentistry, our team understands that wisdom tooth removal can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already juggling school, work, or family responsibilities. We work with skilled oral surgeons who visit our practice monthly to provide comfortable sedation options, making your procedure as stress-free as possible while keeping you close to home.
Why Wisdom Teeth Often Need Removal
Your wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. Unfortunately, most people’s mouths simply don’t have enough space to accommodate these late arrivals. When there isn’t adequate room, wisdom teeth can become impacted, meaning they’re unable to fully erupt through the gums.
This crowding can lead to several problems that affect your overall oral health. Partially erupted wisdom teeth create pockets where bacteria can accumulate, leading to infections and gum disease. They can also push against neighboring teeth, potentially undoing years of orthodontic work or creating new alignment issues.
Signs You May Need Wisdom Tooth Removal
You might experience several warning signs that indicate your wisdom teeth need attention. These may include the following:
- Persistent pain or pressure in the back of your mouth
- Swelling around the gums near your back molars
- Difficulty opening your mouth fully
- Bad breath that doesn’t improve with brushing
- An unpleasant taste in your mouth
- Crowding of your other teeth
Some people experience these symptoms gradually, while others wake up one morning with sudden, intense pain. Either way, it’s important to have your wisdom teeth evaluated promptly to prevent complications.
The Benefits of Sedation During Wisdom Tooth Removal
Many patients feel anxious about oral surgery, and that’s completely understandable. The thought of being awake during tooth extraction can be stressful, especially if you’ve had negative dental experiences in the past. Sedation dentistry offers a solution that allows you to remain comfortable and relaxed throughout your procedure.
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is a safe and effective sedative agent that is mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a small mask that fits over your nose to help you relax. For more complex extractions, deeper sedation options may be recommended to ensure your complete comfort.
Types of Sedation Available
Our visiting oral surgeons offer different levels of sedation based on your specific needs and comfort level. Mild sedation helps you feel relaxed while remaining fully conscious and able to respond to instructions. Moderate sedation may cause you to feel drowsy and have little memory of the procedure. For complex cases involving multiple impacted teeth, deeper sedation ensures you remain completely comfortable throughout the surgery.
The type of sedation recommended for you will depend on factors such as the complexity of your extraction, your anxiety level, and your medical history. During your consultation, we’ll discuss all available options and help you choose the approach that feels right for you.
What to Expect During Your Wisdom Tooth Removal
Before your procedure, you’ll meet with our oral surgeon to review your treatment plan and discuss any questions or concerns. We’ll take detailed X-rays to understand the position of your wisdom teeth and plan the most efficient extraction approach.
On the day of your surgery, you’ll receive your chosen sedation method before the procedure begins. Local anesthesia will also be used to ensure the extraction area is completely numb. Most patients find they feel relaxed and comfortable throughout the entire process. The actual extraction time varies depending on whether your teeth are fully erupted or impacted beneath the gums. Simple extractions of fully erupted teeth typically take just a few minutes each, while impacted teeth may require more time to remove safely.
Take the Next Step Toward Comfort and Schedule Your Wisdom Teeth Removal With Sedation
If you’ve been told you need wisdom tooth removal, or if you’re experiencing symptoms that suggest your wisdom teeth are causing problems, don’t let anxiety prevent you from seeking treatment. Modern sedation options make the procedure much more comfortable than you might expect.Wisdom tooth problems don’t improve on their own, and delaying treatment often makes the eventual extraction more complicated. Our team at Burien Signature Dentistry is here to guide you through every step of the process, from initial evaluation to complete recovery. Contact us today at (206) 246-3222 or schedule your consultation online to discuss your wisdom tooth concerns and learn more about how sedation can make your procedure comfortable and stress-free.
