IV Sedation/Anesthesia
Depending on the level of treatment, our practice provides different levels of anesthesia to maximize patient comfort during and after the procedure or surgery.
When local anesthesia is used alone, 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. The patient may choose local anesthesia alone for minimally invasive procedures.
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.
General anesthesia medications are administered through an intravenous line (IV). 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.
