April 14th, 2021
One of the most common topics we get questions about is anesthesia and what kind will be used. You can talk with your oral surgeon about this during consultation, but here is an overview.
Local
Local anesthesia is often used for many procedures. A numbing agent is administered through a shot. Although you will be awake during the procedure, you should only feel pressure and no pain.
Nitrous oxide, or “laughing gas”, is used mainly to help with anxiety. You will breathe in the nitrous oxide through a mask and will begin to feel relaxed. You will not fall asleep and can still communicate with your doctor.
Intravenous
IV sedation is for more invasive procedures. An IV is administered into a vein, causing you to fall asleep, or in some cases a calm and relaxed “twilight” sleep, for the procedure. You will awake once the medicine is stopped.
General Anesthesia (hospital)
Some people are best managed in a hospital or surgery center. This could be due to the complexity of the surgery, the patient’s health, in cases of severe anxiety or developmental delay.
Remember: All sedation takes place in a safe environment that utilizes modern anesthesia monitoring equipment and a staff experienced in anesthesia techniques. You are in good hands!
Find more information here.
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