Anesthetic solutions have been making surgical procedures safe and comfortable since the 1840s. While this pain-numbing concoction is used in almost every medical and dental procedure, it does come with risks if not administered properly – and not all sedation methods are equal. Each type has its benefits and risks that patients should know before surgery.
It’s crucial to understand how each method works and how it may affect you. Let’s explore the most common anesthetic options in oral surgery.
Most Common Anesthetic Options
Local anesthesia, general anesthesia, and nitrous oxide are the most common anesthetic options in oral surgery. These options vary in levels of sedation, and each has unique benefits and risks. Your surgeon will recommend the best and most suitable option for you using multiple determining factors.
Local Anesthetic
With local anesthetic, the surgeon injects a small amount of painkiller into the site where the surgery will take place. This type of anesthetic is commonly used in simple and minor procedures such as tooth extractions or fillings.
Lidocaine is the most common type of local anesthetic used in oral surgery. It numbs the area and blocks pain signals from being sent to the brain, making the patient more comfortable during the procedure.
In most clinics, the dental surgeon pairs local anesthesia with nitrous oxide to help highly anxious patients relax and feel more at ease during the procedure.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Nitrous oxide is a colorless and odorless gas inhaled through the nose during the procedure. This type of sedation induces deep relaxation, making patients less aware and more comfortable during surgery.
Nitrous oxide sedation is preferred for simple dental procedures and slightly complex surgeries, such as wisdom tooth extraction.
If you’ve seen funny online reels of someone talking gibberish after a wisdom tooth procedure, it’s because nitrous oxide can induce a state of euphoria and make patients act a little silly. Because of this side effect, many people call nitrous oxide “laughing gas.”
General Anesthesia
General anesthesia is the most potent type of sedation. It induces unconsciousness, making patients completely unaware and unresponsive during surgery.
This type of anesthetic is commonly used in complex oral surgeries and procedures that require a significant amount of time to complete, such as jaw realignment or full mouth reconstruction. General anesthesia carries more risks than other types of sedation because it affects the entire body.
Surgeons typically administer general anesthesia through an IV or inhalation, and it requires close monitoring during and after the procedure to ensure patient safety. This anesthesia can be administered in the dentist’s office or a hospital setting, depending on the procedure.
How Doctors Determine the Right Sedation Option for You
Despite its benefits, anesthesia is not without risks. Dental surgeons and anesthesiologists methodically evaluate and plan the right sedation option for each patient.
Different cases require different levels of sedation, and here are some of the most common factors professionals consider when choosing the best option for a patient.
Your Dental Procedure
The type of dental procedure you’re having is the most crucial factor in determining the right sedation option. Complex surgeries and procedures that require a significant amount of time, such as jaw reconstruction or multiple extractions, typically require general anesthesia for patient comfort.
Your Stress/Anxiety Levels
If you’re highly anxious or have a dental phobia, your surgeon may recommend nitrous oxide or conscious sedation to help you relax during the procedure. These options can also be paired with local anesthesia for pain control.
Your Medical History
Anesthesia may adversely interact with some medications and medical conditions, such as heart problems or respiratory issues. It’s crucial to disclose your complete medical history to your surgeon before the procedure.
Other Medical Reasons
Some patients may not be able to tolerate certain types of sedation due to other medical conditions. For instance, individuals with a history of substance abuse or sleep apnea may not be good candidates for general anesthesia.
Your Comfort Is Our Priority
At Green Valley Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center, we understand the importance of finding your comfort zone during oral surgery. Our experienced team carefully evaluates each patient’s case and provides the best sedation option for their specific needs.
We don’t just want to make your procedure pain-free but also stress-free and comfortable so you won’t develop a dental phobia in the future. Whether you need a simple tooth extraction or a complex implant surgery, our team is dedicated to providing safe and effective sedation solutions for all your oral surgery needs.
Schedule Your Appointment with Us
Dental procedures shouldn’t cause you anxiety and discomfort. With the right sedation option, you can relax and feel more comfortable during your oral surgery.
If you need an oral procedure, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment at Green Valley Oral Surgery. Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional care and ensuring your comfort throughout the process.
Contact us now or book an appointment online.