Posted on 6/3/2024 by Greater Charlotte Oral and Facial Surgery
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons have various anesthesia methods to maximize patient comfort during surgery. The anesthesia approach is customized for each patient and procedure. Common options include:
Local Anesthesia
This involves injecting a numbing agent like lidocaine to block pain signals in the oral surgery site. Local anesthesia alone is often used for simple procedures like tooth extractions. Numbing shots block sensation, but you remain awake.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Nitrous oxide sedation involves breathing in a mixture of nitrous and oxygen gases through a mask. This induces a state of relaxation and reduced anxiety while the patient remains conscious. Nitrous may be combined with local anesthesia.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedatives like Valium are prescription anti-anxiety medications that calm nerves. Taken before surgery, they help you feel sleepy and relaxed but still able to follow commands. Oral sedatives are used for moderately complex procedures.
IV Moderate Sedation
IV moderate sedation administers sedative drugs intravenously to produce a deeper relaxed state. Examples are IV fentanyl and midazolam. You become exhausted but can still respond. Many extensive oral surgeries utilize IV sedation.
Deep Sedation
With deep sedation, you are placed in a deeper sleep-like state that borders on general anesthesia. Assisted breathing support may be used if necessary. Powerful intravenous medications like propofol induce a level of profound sedation and near-unconsciousness while still allowing you to respond slightly if stimulated.
General Anesthesia
This causes a total loss of consciousness and awareness, as in a deep coma-like sleep. You are fully unaware and completely unable to respond throughout the procedure. A secured airway breathing tube is inserted to maintain proper respiration and oxygenation. General anesthesia is most commonly used for major maxillofacial surgery cases.
Your oral and maxillofacial surgeon will explain the sedation choices appropriate for your surgery and health status. The goal is your utmost comfort, safety, and anxiety relief. Contact our office today to inquire about our anesthesia options for your next dental procedure.
About Us | Greater Charlotte Oral and Facial Surgery Our surgeon and compassionate oral surgery team share the same goal: To provide the most comfortable experiences with the very best outcomes for our patients! Greater Charlotte Oral and Facial Surgery, 10935 Winds Crossing Dr. Suite 400, Charlotte, NC 28273; (980) 332-7990; greatercharlotteoralsurgery.com; 12/5/2024; Tags: dental implants Charlotte NC;
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons have various anesthesia methods to maximize patient comfort during surgery. The anesthesia approach is customized for each patient and procedure. Common options include: