A dental extraction is a more formal term for having a tooth pulled. And while this may sound as though it is highly invasive, it is actually a very routine procedure that is done in-office.
Dentists will do everything they can to save a natural tooth, but teeth that are broken or severely decayed cannot always be restored, requiring an extraction. Or, sometimes a mouth that is overcrowded with teeth will need a little extra space.
Regardless of the reason for the procedure, getting a tooth extraction is likely to leave you with a lot of questions. For instance, what can I do to prepare for a tooth extraction? Will I be sedated during the procedure? And can I drive after getting a tooth extraction?
Let’s find out what you need to know about your tooth extraction.
How to Prepare for a Tooth Extraction
Going through with your tooth extraction is an important step in taking care of your oral health. Your dentist will start with using local anesthesia to keep you comfortable for the procedure. And, this will keep you from feeling any pain or discomfort.
For those who require additional sedation, your dentist may offer something in addition to the local anesthesia, such as nitrous oxide or oral conscious sedation.
Nitrous Oxide. Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a type of sedation that can be used to help patients feel relaxed and at ease during their tooth extraction. For those who have a little anxiety about the procedure, this can help to relieve nerves.
Nitrous Oxide with Valium. If a patient needs a bit more, valium can be taken with nitrous oxide. Valium is an anti-anxiety medication that also works well in calming fears that may be present prior to tooth extraction. This is taken two hours before the patient’s appointment and nitrous oxide is administered just before the procedure begins.
Oral Conscious Sedation. Oral conscious sedation is another method of sedation that can be used with tooth extraction. This is for patients more afraid of undergoing the dental procedure. In this situation, medication is taken orally prior to the appointment. During the procedure, the patient will be able to respond and be conscious, but may not remember it.
Can I Drive After Getting a Tooth Extraction?
So, can you drive after getting a tooth extraction? It all comes down to whether or not you have sedation – and what type.
With a tooth extraction using local anesthesia, you should not have any issues driving home on your own. However, certain types of sedation can impact your ability to do so. Nitrous oxide stops impacting you within moments of the gas being stopped. Therefore, if you have this type of sedation, you should still be alright to drive home, as well.
The use of valium or oral conscious sedation will require you to have someone with you to drive you home. With these types of sedation, you will not be able to drive after getting a tooth extraction.
Tooth Extractions at Champagne Smiles
Dr. Champagne and the entire team at Champagne Smiles do everything they can to save a natural tooth. But, sometimes tooth extraction is necessary. When it is, you can feel confident in the treatment and exceptional care provided by our office.
If you’re ready to start your journey to better oral health with Dr. Richard Champagne and a truly collaborative and compassionate dental team, contact Champagne Smiles in Morganville, NJ today to schedule your first appointment.
