Procedure for wisdom teeth removal?
Wisdom teeth can be removed under local anesthetic in the Dentist’s chair, under intravenous sedation in the dentist’s chair or under general anaesthetic in a hospital.
Procedures under local anaesthetic usually takes place in the Dentist’s rooms, and can be performed with or without oral sedatives, Happy gas sedation or intravenous sedation. Local anaesthetic will remove any pain sensation; however, people are still aware of pressure and pushing (less so if sedated).
Intravenous sedation can also be performed in the Dentist’s rooms. A medical practitioner (Specialist Anaesthetist or a doctor with training in IV sedation) will attend the appointment and provide intravenous sedation. The sedation will assist with any anxiety and allow you to be treated in a relaxed state. The dentist will still use local anaesthetic for pain control. The result is a “twighlight sleep” with no recollection of the procedure.
The alternative option is wisdom teeth removal under general anaesthetic in a private hospital setting. Many people opt for a general anaesthetic so that they can sleep through the procedure and be totally unaware of any part of the experience.
In order for your Dentist to make a recommendation on whether you or your child should undergo wisdom teeth removal, a full mouth x-ray (OPG) will be required to assess the position, level of development and likelihood of normal eruption. Your Dentist will then be able to provide you with appropriate treatment options along with an estimate of associated costs.
