ANESTHESIA

We offer several options for anesthesia. The method of anesthesia typically depends upon the nature of the surgical procedure and the patient’s level of apprehension.

• ANESTHESIA OPTIONS
• INTRAVENOUS SEDATION (“TWILIGHT SEDATION”)
• NITROUS OXIDE (LAUGHING GAS)

ANESTHESIA OPTIONS

• Local Anesthetic
• Nitrous Oxide Sedation with Local Anesthetic
• Office Based General Anesthesia with Local Anesthetic
• Hospital or Surgery Center Based General Anesthesia

Local Anesthetic

The patient remains totally conscious throughout the procedure. A local anesthetic (e.g. 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.

Nitrous Oxide Sedation with Local Anesthetic

A mixture of nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oxygen is administered through a nasal breathing apparatus. The patient remains conscious in a relaxed condition. Nitrous oxide has a sedative and analgesic (pain-controlling) effect.

Office Based General Anesthesia with Local Anesthetic

Medications are administered through an intravenous line (I.V.). The patient falls asleep and is completely unaware of the procedure being performed.

Medications most commonly used are Fentanyl (opiate), Versed (benzodiazepine), ketamine, and Diprivan. Supplemental oxygen is delivered through a nasal breathing apparatus and the patient’s vital signs are closely monitored.

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.

Hospital or Surgery Center Based General Anesthesia

A patient is admitted to a hospital or surgery center where anesthesia is administered by an anesthesiologist.

Indicated for patients undergoing extensive procedures such as face and jaw reconstruction and TMJ surgery. Also indicated for patients with medical conditions such as heart disease or lung disease who require general anesthesia.

INTRAVENOUS SEDATION (“TWILIGHT SEDATION”)

Our office offers our patients the option of Intravenous Sedation or to some, it is referred to as “Twilight Sedation” for their treatment. Intravenous Sedation or “twilight sleep” helps you to be comfortable and calm when undergoing a procedure.

IV sedation will essentially help alleviate the anxiety associated with your treatment. You may not always be asleep but you will be comfortable, calm, and relaxed, drifting in and out of sleep – a “twilight sleep”.

NITROUS OXIDE (LAUGHING GAS)

Nitrous Oxide is a sweet-smelling, non-irritating, colorless gas that you can breathe. Nitrous Oxide has been the primary means of sedation in dentistry for many years.

Nitrous oxide is safe; the patient receives 50-70% oxygen with no less than 30% nitrous oxide. Patients are able to breathe on their own and remain in control of all bodily functions.

There are many advantages to using Nitrous Oxide

• The depth of sedation can be altered at any time to increase or decrease sedation.
• There is no after effect such as a “hangover”.
• Inhalation sedation is safe with no side effects on your heart and lungs, etc.
• Inhalation sedation is very effective in minimizing gagging.
• It works rapidly as it reaches the brain within 20 seconds. In as few as 2-3 minutes, its relaxation and pain-killing properties develop.

When it comes to anesthesia, our first priority is the patient’s safety and comfort.  and safety. If you have any concerns regarding the type of anesthesia that will be administered during your oral surgery procedure, please do not hesitate to discuss your concerns with Dr. Albanese at the time of your consultation.