What makes you loopy after wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure that many individuals undergo, typically between the ages of 17 and 25. While the surgery itself is generally quick and routine, the post-operative experience often brings with it a range of effects, some of which can be quite amusing—such as feeling “loopy” or disoriented after the procedure. This sense of confusion and giddiness is something most people either experience themselves or witness in friends and family members. But what exactly causes this loopy feeling? Below, we explore the causes, effects, and the science behind this phenomenon.
Understanding the Anesthesia Process
Types of Anesthesia Used
Before discussing what makes patients feel loopy, it’s essential to understand the different types of anesthesia commonly used during wisdom teeth removal. Depending on the complexity of the surgery and patient preference, dentists and oral surgeons usually administer one of three main types of anesthesia:
- Local Anesthesia: Numbs the specific area where the teeth are being removed. Patients remain fully conscious but won’t feel pain.
- Sedation Anesthesia: Administered through an intravenous (IV) line, this type of anesthesia allows the patient to remain in a semi-conscious or fully unconscious state.
- General Anesthesia: Used less commonly, this type renders the patient completely unconscious and is typically reserved for more complicated or multiple tooth extractions.
The Role of Sedation in Making You Loopy
The loopiness that people experience after wisdom teeth removal is mainly due to the lingering effects of sedation anesthesia or general anesthesia. These types of anesthetics contain substances that suppress the central nervous system, reducing consciousness and making it difficult to form clear memories during and immediately after surgery. The effect can last for several hours post-surgery, leaving patients feeling light-headed, euphoric, or disoriented.
Why Do You Feel Euphoric?
One of the main reasons patients feel unusually happy or disoriented after the procedure is because of nitrous oxide—also known as laughing gas. This gas is commonly used in combination with other anesthetics to make patients feel relaxed before and during the surgery. Nitrous oxide works by slowing down the brain’s ability to process stimuli, which results in the lighthearted or giggly sensation that people often associate with the term “loopy.”
How Long Does the Loopy Feeling Last?
Immediate Effects Post-Surgery
The duration of the loopy feeling can vary depending on the type of sedation used and how your body metabolizes the anesthesia. For most patients, the sensation starts to subside within a few hours after the surgery. However, it’s not uncommon for some individuals to feel groggy or disoriented for the remainder of the day.
Lingering Effects
In cases where IV sedation or general anesthesia was used, patients might experience some mild side effects, such as dizziness, confusion, or memory loss, for up to 24 hours post-surgery. This is why it’s recommended that someone accompany you to the surgery and stay with you afterward to ensure your safety.
Other Factors That Can Contribute to Feeling Loopy
Pain Medications
In addition to the anesthesia, the pain medications prescribed after wisdom teeth removal can also contribute to the loopy sensation. Common post-surgery pain relievers such as opioids (e.g., hydrocodone or oxycodone) are known to cause drowsiness, lightheadedness, and mood swings in some patients.
Dehydration and Nutrition
Post-surgery, patients are often unable to eat solid food right away, and some may avoid drinking water for fear of aggravating their sensitive gums. Dehydration and a lack of proper nutrition can worsen the feeling of dizziness and disorientation. It’s essential to stay hydrated and follow your dentist’s instructions on post-surgery care to help minimize these effects.
Stress and Anxiety
The stress leading up to the surgery can also play a role in how your body reacts to the anesthesia and pain medications. Patients who are more anxious about the procedure might find themselves feeling more disoriented or out of control afterward due to the mental and emotional build-up. The combination of emotional stress and physical recovery can amplify the feeling of confusion.
What to Expect After Surgery
Post-Operative Care Instructions
Your oral surgeon will likely provide you with detailed post-operative care instructions to help manage pain, swelling, and discomfort following the procedure. Following these guidelines is critical to a smooth recovery and reducing unwanted side effects. These may include:
- Rest: Take it easy for the first 24-48 hours after surgery.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration, but avoid using straws as the sucking motion can dislodge blood clots and cause dry socket.
- Pain Management: Take your prescribed medications as directed, but be mindful of potential side effects like drowsiness or nausea.
- Diet: Stick to soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, and mashed potatoes during the initial recovery period.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While most patients experience minimal side effects beyond the initial few hours of loopiness, it’s essential to recognize when more serious complications arise. Contact your oral surgeon if you experience:
- Excessive bleeding that doesn’t stop after applying pressure.
- Severe pain that isn’t relieved by prescribed medications.
- Signs of infection, such as fever, swelling, or pus around the surgical site.
- Dry socket, which occurs when a blood clot dislodges from the extraction site, exposing bone and causing intense pain.
How to Recover Faster
Avoid Strenuous Activities
In the first few days following your surgery, avoid any strenuous physical activities. Exercise, heavy lifting, or anything that increases your heart rate can cause bleeding or discomfort in the extraction area. Stick to light activities and gradually return to your regular routine as your body heals.
Cold Compresses for Swelling
Using a cold compress on your cheeks can significantly reduce swelling, which is common after wisdom teeth removal. Apply an ice pack wrapped in a towel to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time to help minimize swelling and discomfort.
Maintain Oral Hygiene
Proper oral hygiene is crucial during the recovery period, but you’ll need to be gentle. Your oral surgeon will provide you with specific guidelines on how to clean your mouth without disturbing the extraction site. Typically, this involves rinsing with a saline solution rather than brushing directly on the surgical area.
Conclusion
In this article we will talk about what makes you loopy after wisdom teeth removal. The loopy feeling after wisdom teeth removal is a combination of the effects of anesthesia, pain medications, and the body’s response to surgery. While the sensation is typically harmless and short-lived, understanding what causes it can help you better prepare for the experience. By following your post-surgery care instructions and being mindful of potential side effects, you can ensure a smoother and faster recovery.