Anesthesia

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are highly trained and qualified to safely and appropriately administer local anesthesia, general anesthesia, and all forms of sedation. Their extensive training includes at least a four-year residency in a hospital setting where they learn to evaluate your individual needs, deliver anesthesia, and monitor you throughout the procedure. Below is an overview of options for anesthesia and sedation.

Local Anesthetic

A local anesthetic is applied directly to the surgical site to numb the area and prevent you from feeling pain.

When it’s used
Simple, minimally invasive procedures – Some soft-tissue procedures and simple extractions only require a local anesthetic. But you can request sedation to help you relax.

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is administered through a breathing mask to give you a sense of calm and well-being. It is the mildest level of sedation. It allows you to stay conscious, yet relaxed.

When it’s used
Simple, surgical or non-surgical procedures – Nitrous oxide can be used along with local anesthesia to help you relax and control pain.

The following moderate to high levels of sedation require you to have a responsible adult drive you to and from your appointment and stay at our office throughout the appointment.

Oral Sedatives

Oral sedatives are a moderate level of sedation used to help you relax and decrease your sensitivity to pain. You will be given a pill to take about an hour before your procedure. Any local anesthetic needed for your procedure will still be used. You’ll be conscious, but so relaxed that you might not remember what happened during your appointment.

When it’s used
Either simple or more involved procedures – This level of sedation can be used based on the procedure or your level of anxiety.

I.V. Sedation

This highest level of sedation, often referred to as twilight sedation, is administered in our office through an I.V. It quickly becomes effective in decreasing awareness of your procedure. You will still be conscious, but comfortable and calm—so deeply relaxed that you might drift in and out of sleep during the procedure. In fact, you’ll probably have no memory of your procedure after the sedation wears off.

When it’s used
Can be used for most procedures –  But it’s particularly useful for high levels of anxiety and lengthy or more involved procedures.

In-office General Anesthesia

Medication is administered through an IV. It eliminates pain and anxiety. You will be asleep and unaware of the procedure. Throughout the procedure, you will breathe in oxygen, and your vital signs will be monitored. The effects last longer than IV sedation and take several hours to wear off.

When it’s used
Procedures that require a higher level than local anesthesia – This includes procedures such as dental implants or wisdom teeth extraction. It’s effective for patients who don’t need complete muscle relaxation and are not at risk of needing ventilators.

Hospital General Anesthesia

You will be admitted to a hospital and general anesthesia will be administered by an anesthesiologist.

When it’s used
Face and jaw reconstruction or other major procedures –  Patients with certain medical conditions, including heart or lung diseases may require it.

What to Expect

Fast: If you’re receiving I.V. sedation or general anesthesia, don’t eat or drink anything eight hours before your procedure.

Bring a friend: If you receive oral sedation, I.V. sedation, or general anesthesia, you will need a responsible adult to transport you to and from your appointment.

Comfort and care: We will ensure your comfort before, during, and after your procedure.

If you have any concerns or questions, please call us. We will address your concerns to ensure you have the best experience possible.