Expert: Joel S. Teig, DMD, Diplomate ABOMS, retired - 5/27/2007

Question
Hiya-I'm scheduled to have both my lower wisdom teeth removed, they are horizontally impacted and starting to make holes in the molars in front or something. I was told by the surgeon that I will need general anaesthesia, he said they wouldn't think of doing it with just IV sedation. I had a GA for major hip surgery late last year and was really sick after so I really dont want another one-but someone said maybe they will be different.

My question is:- Is the dental surgery GA different from a normal surgery GA?

Also, my Auntie had to have antibiotics before she had some dental work done because of her hip replacement and she asked me if I would need the same since I have 2 screws in my hip. I realise that 2 screws are different from a hip replacement but I have no idea whether they pose the same risk. I am supposed to be getting the screws removed sometime (also under GA) and it may end up the week before my teeth are coming out-will that be ok or should I reschedule?

Thanks for your help.

Answer
Felicia -  Sounds like you are going to be busy.

As far as the anesthesia, in hospital general anesthesia is more profound than in office anesthesia. Some doctors utilize the same medications, but the main difference is the level of anesthesia.  In hospital, the patient undergoing anesthesia stops spontaneous breathing and the anesthesiologist either inserts a tube into the bronchus to breath for the patient or the anesthesiologist places a mask over the face and breathes for the patient that way.

In office anesthesia is mainly different since the patient continues to breath.  The level of awareness is missing like in hospital, but the patient maintains some protective reflexes like breathing.  

As far as premedication with antibiotics for the screws, it is not necessary.  Intrajoint surgery where there may be excessive bleeding often requires a premedication, but not for what you have.

If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me again.