Anesthesia
Anesthesia is an important part of every oral surgery procedure. We offer solutions to eliminate anxiety, while maintaining maximum patient comfort and safety. We can calm your nerves and even give you a restful sleep if you want while we work through your procedure.
| Method of Anesthesia | Description of Technique | Usual Indications |
| Local Anesthetic |
The patient remains totally conscious throughout the procedure. A local anesthetic such as lidocaine is administered in the area where the surgery is to be performed. Local anesthetic is used in conjunction with the other methods of anesthesia in all oral surgery procedures. |
Simple oral surgery procedures such as minor soft tissue procedures and simple tooth extractions. |
| Nitrous Oxide “Laughing Gas” |
A mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen is administered through a nasal breathing mask. The patient remains conscious in a relaxed condition. Nitrous oxide has a sedative and analgesic (pain-controlling) effect but is typically used in conjunction with local anesthesia for pain control. |
Simple oral surgery procedures to more involved procedures such as removal of wisdom teeth and placement of dental implants. |
| IV Sedation “Twilight Sedation” |
Intravenous Sedation, IV Sedation or as some refer to it as “Twilight Sedation” helps alleviate anxiety when undergoing dental procedures. You may not always be asleep, but you will be comfortable, calm and relaxed, drifting in and out of sleep – a “twilight sleep”. This type of sedation is administered through an IV in our office.
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IV Sedation is available for all types of oral surgery. A patient may choose an IV Sedation for simple procedures depending on their level of anxiety. It is suitable for most oral surgery procedures. |
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General Anesthesia |
This type of sedation is very common. With a general anesthetic, the patient falls asleep and will have little to no memory of the surgical procedure that was performed. Oxygen is delivered through a nasal breathing apparatus and the patient’s vital signs are closely monitored before, during and after surgery. This type of sedation is administered through an IV in our office. |
General anesthesia is available for all types of oral surgery. A patient may choose general anesthesia for simple procedures depending on their level of anxiety. Most people having their wisdom teeth removed or having a dental implant placed will choose general anesthesia. General anesthesia may be necessary if local anesthesia fails to anesthetize the surgical site which often occurs in the presence of infection |
Safety and Anesthesia
Your comfort and safety is our #1 priority. As the surgical specialists of the dental profession, oral and maxillofacial surgeons are extensively trained in all aspects of anesthesia administration and patient monitoring. We will make you comfortable before, during and after your procedure.
Worried About Pain During Your Treatment?
Anesthesia is available for your comfort and safety. Contact us to learn more or to schedule an appointment.
Anesthesia Guidelines for Day of Surgery
- Fast – No food or drinks 8 hours prior to your procedure if you are having IV Sedation or General Anesthesia.
- Bring a Responsible Driver – If you are under 18 years of age, you will need to bring a parent or guardian. Your driver must remain in the waiting room while your surgery is performed.
- Clothing – Wear comfortable loose clothing. A short sleeve shirt is preferred for IV Sedation or General Anesthesia.
- Contact Lens – If you are wearing contact lens, please bring your carrying case or wear your regular glasses.
- After Care – After an IV anesthetic you should have someone stay with you at home for at least 12 hours.
THE DAY OF TREATMENT
Please do not eat or drink anything prior to your surgery. Having anything in your stomach can increase the risk for serious anesthetic complications.
