WHAT IS ANESTHESIA?

Anesthesia is designed to make dental procedures more comfortable for you. Local anesthetic is used to numb a specific area of the mouth. General anesthetic, or sedation, is used to put you into a deeply relaxed and almost sleep-like state so that treatment is easier and quicker for you. Anesthesia is ideal for patients undergoing more complex procedures or as a way to prevent pain and discomfort.

WHY WOULD ANESTHESIA BE NEEDED?

You might benefit from anesthesia if you're going to be undergoing a complex surgery or procedure. Sedation helps you to relax and calm down when these procedures are being done. We typically use local anesthetic to help relieve pain and discomfort when undergoing less invasive procedures or when you'll be awake for surgery. All types of anesthetic are safe and effective for patients of all ages.

WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR ANESTHESIA?

To determine if anesthesia is right for you, we'll review all medical and health history. Most of our patients, regardless of age, are good candidates for sedation. We will go over the different types of sedatives we offer in our office. When undergoing general sedation, we recommend having a friend or relative with you to bring you home from your appointment.

WHAT CAN BE EXPECTED DURING ANESTHESIA?

Because we have different types of anesthetics to choose from, your experience will depend on which one you choose. IV sedation involves placing a small needle into your arm and administering a low dose of sedative to put you into a deeply relaxed and sleep-like state. Nitrous oxide is ideal for calming you down and is often used in conjunction with a local anesthetic to reduce pain. Oral sedation can be taken prior to your appointment and its goal is to relax you enough for the treatment to be done. Each option is safe, effective and carefully administered and monitored while you're in the office.

If you'd like to learn more about anesthesia, call our office today and one of our helpful staff members will be happy to further assist you.