What Makes You Loopy After Wisdom Teeth Removal Explained
what makes you loopy after wisdom teeth removal
Getting your wisdom teeth removed is a common procedure, especially among teens and young adults. But what really surprises most people isn’t the surgery itself — it’s what happens right after. Slurred speech, giggling, emotional outbursts, and random thoughts… it’s like watching a comedy show. But why do people act loopy after wisdom teeth removal?
This article breaks it all down — the science behind that “loopy” feeling, what medications are involved, and how long it lasts. Whether you’re preparing for surgery or simply curious, we’re here to explain it in plain language.
Understanding What Makes You Loopy After Wisdom Teeth Removal
If you’ve ever watched those funny post-op videos online, you might wonder what causes all that weird behavior. The answer lies mostly in the anesthesia and sedation used during oral surgery.
Wisdom tooth extraction can be done under local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia. Most patients prefer IV sedation or general anesthesia because it helps them sleep through the procedure — and that’s exactly where the loopiness begins.
Sedatives & Anesthesia: The Main Culprits
The medications used to sedate you affect your brain’s central nervous system. Here are the most common ones:
- Midazolam (Versed) – A short-acting benzodiazepine that causes drowsiness, reduces anxiety, and impairs short-term memory.
- Propofol – A fast-acting anesthetic that puts you to sleep quickly.
- Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas) – Mildly euphoric and causes giggling or lightheadedness.
These substances suppress your brain’s higher functions temporarily. When you’re coming out of anesthesia, your brain is still “waking up,” which leads to strange emotions, slurred words, and uninhibited thoughts.
Why People Say Strange Things Afterwards
Have you or someone you know ever confessed a deep secret after wisdom tooth removal? That’s not unusual.
These medications affect the frontal lobe — the part of the brain responsible for self-control, reasoning, and memory. So when you’re sedated, your mental filters are off. This is why you might:
- Start crying over your pet fish
- Declare your love for a nurse
- Think you’re still in high school
- Forget what happened five minutes ago
It’s all a normal part of the recovery — funny, harmless, and usually short-lived.
How Long Does the “Loopy” Feeling Last?
The effects vary from person to person, depending on:
- Type and amount of anesthesia used
- Your age and body weight
- Metabolism
- Duration of surgery
Typically, the loopy behavior lasts 30 minutes to 2 hours after the surgery. Some people might feel groggy or “out of it” for the rest of the day.
Important: Don’t make any major decisions or sign documents after surgery. You might not be thinking clearly yet.
Physical Side Effects vs Mental Side Effects
While loopiness is mostly mental, it can also be accompanied by physical symptoms:
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Trouble walking straight
- Blurry vision
These symptoms are also a result of the lingering effects of anesthesia or sedatives. Be sure to have someone you trust take you home safely and monitor you until the anesthesia wears off.
LSI Keyword Section: What Makes You Loopy After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
You may be searching terms like “what makes you loopy after wisdom teeth removal”, and it’s good to know that the answer is a mix of medicine, brain chemistry, and a temporarily altered state of awareness.
It’s not something to be afraid of — but something to prepare for. Parents or friends should expect a few giggles, some bizarre comments, and a whole lot of “I don’t remember that!”
How to Prepare for That Post-Op Loopiness
Here’s what you can do to make the experience smoother:
- Have a loved one film (with permission) – If you’re curious to see what you say after, it can make for fun memories.
- Wear comfy clothes – You may feel uncoordinated afterward.
- Don’t eat before surgery (as instructed) – This reduces nausea afterward.
- Plan for recovery time – Take the day off to rest and laugh off the loopiness.
Emotional Reactions Are Common
Some people wake up and burst into tears, while others laugh uncontrollably. Why?
These reactions stem from how anesthesia impacts the limbic system — the brain’s emotion control center. You’re more likely to express raw emotions, especially if you were already anxious before the surgery.
It’s not weird — just human.
When Should You Be Concerned?
While post-op loopiness is usually harmless, there are a few red flags to watch for:
- Prolonged confusion (beyond a few hours)
- Severe nausea or vomiting
- Trouble breathing
- Rash or allergic reaction
If any of these occur, contact your dental surgeon or head to urgent care immediately.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Recovery Timeline (Brief Overview)
Here’s what to expect beyond the loopy phase:
| Time After Surgery | What Happens |
| 0–2 Hours | Loopy, sleepy, emotional |
| 2–6 Hours | Some discomfort, swelling begins |
| 24 Hours | Swelling, soreness, soft foods only |
| 3–5 Days | Healing begins, less pain |
| 1 Week+ | Stitches removed, full recovery near |
Faith & Healing: A Quick Reflection
It’s okay to feel anxious before surgery. Many people, especially from Muslim backgrounds, find comfort in reading a short dua before surgery for protection and peace of mind.
Saying “Bismillah” or reading Surah Al-Falaq or Al-Naas can help calm the nerves. It’s always good to invite positivity before any medical procedure.
Stoodmens and Safe Post-Surgery Products
If you’re searching for aftercare solutions, Stoodmens offers comfort-oriented dental recovery products and hydration kits. They’re designed to make your post-wisdom tooth journey smoother. Visit their site for more recovery essentials.
(Brand mention 1/2)
Tips for Friends and Family: Be Prepared for the Fun
If you’re accompanying someone who’s having surgery:
- Don’t laugh too hard — but do enjoy the moment
- Be patient with mood swings
- Keep your camera ready (again, with permission!)
- Make sure they rest well afterward
You’ll see a side of them you never expected!
In Conclusion: The Truth About Loopiness
That loopy, goofy, slightly wild version of yourself post-surgery is just temporary. It’s a side effect of anesthesia and medication, not something to worry about. What makes you loopy after wisdom teeth removal is all part of the body’s recovery process — and with the right care, it fades away quickly.
Be prepared, laugh it off, and enjoy the stories later.
