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Is It Safe to Drive After a Tooth Extraction - Topeka Oral Surgery

Medical procedures can bring up many questions, especially when planning for a tooth extraction without sedation.
Do you need time off work or school? How long will the procedure take? Can you drive yourself to and from the appointment?
Whether it’s safe to drive after a tooth extraction depends on the type of anesthesia your oral surgeon uses during the procedure.

Types of Anesthesia

There are different types of anesthesia mentioned below. Your oral surgeon will choose the best anesthesia based on how complex the extraction and based on your medical history. Here’s a quick guide:

Local anesthesia

This is when we inject lidocaine around the tooth that is being extracted. This means you can drive yourself to and from your appointment without worrying about safety because the anesthesia doesn’t affect your overall alertness.

Minimal sedation

We commonly use nitrous oxide - aka laughing gas. After this type of sedation, you should still be safe to drive home because it doesn’t leave you feeling groggy or impaired

Moderate to Deep Sedation:

This type uses a pill or IV to make you feel like you’re in a light sleep. It can make you feel drowsy and confused for a few hours afterward. It’s important to arrange for a ride home because you shouldn’t drive until you’re completely alert and the effects have worn off.

If your procedure requires sedation, your oral surgeon will inform you in advance. This way, you can arrange for someone to drive you to and from your appointment. If you have any questions or concerns about the type of anesthesia that will be used, make sure to ask your provider before the procedure.

Topeka Oral Surgery is Here for Your Tooth Extractions

If you need a simple tooth extraction without sedation or a more complicated one, our expert team at Topeka Oral Surgery can help. Our skilled oral surgeons have a lot of experience with all types of tooth extractions and other oral surgeries. We are dedicated to providing high quality oral surgery.

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