Anesthesia & Sedation Dentistry

Types of Anesthesia

Our practice offers several types of anesthesia and sedation to ensure your comfort.

Local Anesthesia

Using a syringe, local anesthesia is administered directly to the surgical site. This will numb the area for several hours. It may be used by itself for simple procedures, or combined with another form of anesthesia for added comfort or more involved surgeries. Patients remain fully conscious with local anesthesia.

Nitrous Oxide

Commonly known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is a sedative that is inhaled through a mask. Patients remain conscious, but feel relaxed. It is commonly used in combination with local anesthesia. The effects of nitrous oxide will wear off a few minutes after the mask is removed.

IV Sedation/General Anesthesia

IV sedation is a type of anesthetic administered directly into a vein. It works quickly to put the patient into a semi-conscious state. This means patients can respond to the surgeon’s commands or questions while under IV sedation but do not feel any pain during the procedure.

General anesthesia is typically reserved for highly complex surgical procedures and is performed in an operating room. This type of anesthesia renders the patient completely unconscious during the procedure.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Many patients feel nervous about surgery, and some will refuse or avoid recommended treatment. We want every patient to receive the care they need and feel comfortable during every part of their treatment. Sedation dentistry allows patients to get the care they need and reduces or removes any associated surgical anxiety.

Sedation dentistry benefits patients who experience:

• General anxiety
• Low pain threshold
• Strong gag reflex
• Fear of needles
• Difficulty sitting still
• Tooth sensitivity

At The Regional Center for Dental Implants & Oral Surgery, we want you to get the care you need and will make every effort to ensure your experience with us is as comfortable as possible. We will discuss your options for anesthesia and sedation during your first visit to our practice.

Do Oral Surgeons Perform Sedation?

Yes! Oral surgeons are uniquely qualified in that they are the only dental professionals who receive the training and qualifications to administer anesthesia of all types. Oral surgeons receive in-depth training during their residency to be able to safely administer anesthesia. 

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Your health and safety are always a priority at our practice. Dr. Sherban is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon experienced in administering all forms of anesthesia safely. During your consultation, Dr. Sherban will review your medical history to ensure the type of anesthesia selected is safe for you. 

How to Prepare for Anesthesia

Our team will provide you with detailed instructions to ensure you are fully prepared for your surgical procedure. If your surgery requires IV sedation or generation anesthesia, special steps must be taken prior to your procedure. Please give our office a call if you have any questions about your pre-operative instructions.