Anesthesia
Several methods of anesthesia are available. The method of anesthesia that is chosen for or by a patient depends upon the nature of the surgical procedure and the patient’s level of apprehension.
Anesthesia Options
The following table illustrates the choices of anesthesia, a description of the anesthetic technique.
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MethodTypes of AnesthesiaDescription of Technique
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Method Local AnestheticDescription of Technique 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.
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Method Nitrous OxideDescription of Technique 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.
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Method IV SedationPatients have the option of IV Sedation. Intravenous sedation or “IV sedation” (twilight sleep) is designed to better enable you to undergo your dental procedures while you are very relaxed; it will enable you to tolerate as well as not remember those procedures that may be very uncomfortable for you. 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”.
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General AnesthesiaMedications 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), and Propofol (diprivan). Supplemental oxygen is delivered through a nasal breathing apparatus and the patient’s vital signs are closely monitored.
When it comes to anesthesia, our first priority is the patient’s safety. If you have any concerns regarding the type of anesthesia that will be administered during your procedure, please do not hesitate to discuss these concerns with Dr. Bailey at the time of your consultation.