What to expect with anesthesia
Clear, surgeon-written guidance on anesthesia for wisdom teeth removal — what you’ll feel, how to prepare, and when to reach out.
Quick answers
- Will I be awake? No. Most wisdom teeth procedures are performed under comfortable general anesthesia, so you will be fully asleep and unaware during the surgery. We monitor you closely throughout the entire process.
- What will I feel? Most patients remember very little. It’s common to feel drowsy afterward and have limited memory of the appointment.
- Is anesthesia safe? Yes. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons have a long track record of safely providing office-based anesthesia for wisdom teeth removal. We screen you carefully beforehand and monitor you continuously during your procedure. While every procedure carries some risk, serious anesthesia complications in this setting are uncommon, and our team is trained and equipped to respond immediately if an issue arises.
- Do I need a ride? Yes—plan for a responsible adult to bring you, stay available in the office, and take you home.
What happens on the day of surgery
- Check-in: We confirm your health history, medications, allergies, and your escort/ride home.
- Monitoring: We monitor breathing, oxygen levels, heart rate, and blood pressure throughout.
- Medications: We plan your anesthesia carefully based on your health history and your procedure.
- Recovery: You’ll rest in our recovery area until you’re alert enough to go home with your escort.
How to prepare
- Follow fasting instructions exactly: This is one of the most important safety steps.
- Medication guidance: Take only what we recommend on the morning of surgery. If you’re unsure, call us.
- Wear comfortable clothing: Short sleeves help for monitoring. Avoid jewelry and contact lenses if possible.
- Plan a quiet day: No work, driving, or important decisions after anesthesia.
When to contact us
If you have a change in your health before surgery (fever, respiratory symptoms, new medications), or you’re unsure about fasting or what to take, contact our office so we can guide you.