Hi there. I had mine removed at the end of last year I believe, and they gave me laughing gas and let that sit for a while. Then, once I started to "feel it" they gave me an IV. I didn't know I was getting the gas, but I didn't mind.

I have taken both "alternative" substances as well as these things and I wouldn't compare the two. The "laughing" gas actually calmed me down. I didn't get sad or anything, it just made me (naturally talkative) very chill and quiet. The nurse asked if I was okay, and I was like "yep, just saying a quick prayer..." she was like good, good. Lol.

When they gave me the IV they did my hand because they couldn't find a good vein in my arm. I remember he told me to make a fist, and once he was in he told me I could release it. I remember there seeming to be a quite noticable delay between me knowing to unclench my fist and actually doing it, so I think the gas made my reflexes slower. Once the IV was in, I was out in a few seconds really.

When I woke up from it all, they told me to lay down because I pretty much popped up and was ready to go haha. The only "after" effect I had was that I was cold. I was talking and laughing, alert and hungry. They were kind of surprised that I wasn't groggy.

I took maybe two pain pills the whole time just because they said to, and used the ibuprofen as directed (every 4-6 hours) even if I didn't feel I needed it because it helps reduce the inflammation. I also kept the icepack on consistently for a little over 48 hours (be careful not to freeze/damage your face, the thing they gave me was apparantly thick enough that it didn't bother me). I also was very strict on my diet (pureed everything and only ate the broth from the soup for at least a week). I also laid down for the week until I was bored to death.

In the end, I was very specific about my aftercare but had no swelling, no dry socket, no pain, etc. I'm sure every body is different but the only thing I can say to prepare yourself is to buy the foods, wash your sheets and load up a list of movies that will keep you in bed. Also, take your anti inflammatory, keep it iced and stay in bed and if you have my luck, it should be a relativity smooth experience.

... I mean maybe the dental team was kind of awesome too but, haha. I would do it again in a heartbeat. Good luck!