Learn More About
Sedation
Sedation Options
Learn About the
Benefits of Sedation
Utilizing one of our various forms of sedation can help patients to feel more at ease with their treatment and allow the procedure to go as smoothly as possible.
- Pain-free procedure
- Patient-comfort
- Eases anxiety or apprehension
- Safe - our doctors are highly trained and participate in continual education and licensure renewal for anesthesia administration
- Quick recovery time
Treatment Safety & Process
To administer general anesthesia in the office, an oral surgeon must have completed at least three months of hospital based anesthesia training. Qualified applicants will then undergo an in office evaluation by a state dental board appointed examiner. The examiner observes an actual surgical procedure during which general anesthesia is administered to the patient. The examiner also inspects all monitoring devices and emergency equipment and tests the doctor and the surgical staff on anesthesia related emergencies. If the examiner reports successful completion of the evaluation process, the state dental board will issue the doctor a license to perform general anesthesia. The license is renewable every two years if the doctor maintains the required amount of continuing education units related to anesthesia.
Again, when it comes to anesthesia, our first priority is the patient’s comfort and safety. If you have any concerns regarding the type of anesthesia that will be administered during your oral surgery procedure, please do not hesitate to discuss your concerns with your doctor at the time of your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is sedation safe?
Sedation dentistry treatment is generally considered safe when administered by a qualified oral surgeon or dentist. Before undergoing sedation, your oral surgeon will review your medical history, including any medications you are taking and any pre-existing conditions you may have. This information will help determine the most appropriate type and level of sedation for you.
The sedation process is carefully monitored throughout the procedure to ensure your safety. Your vital signs, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, will be closely monitored to ensure they remain stable.
While sedation is generally safe, there are some risks associated with it, as with any medical procedure. These risks can include allergic reactions to the sedation medication, respiratory depression, and rare complications related to the administration of the sedation.
It's important to discuss any concerns or questions you may have with your oral surgeon before the procedure. They will be able to provide you with more detailed information about the specific sedation techniques they use and address any specific concerns you may have.
Sedation dentistry treatment can be a valuable option for patients who experience dental anxiety or fear. By understanding what to expect during the procedure and discussing your concerns with your oral surgeon, you can make an informed decision about whether sedation dentistry treatment is right for you. Remember to follow your oral surgeon's instructions for pre- and post-operative care to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.
How long does dental sedation last?
The duration of dental sedation can vary depending on the type of sedation used and the length of the procedure. Mild sedation, such as nitrous oxide (commonly known as laughing gas), wears off quickly after the procedure is complete. You will typically be able to resume your normal activities shortly after the treatment.
Moderate sedation, which is often achieved through the use of oral medications, can last for a few hours. The effects of the sedation may take some time to wear off, so it's important to have someone accompany you to and from the dental office if you choose this option.
Deep sedation, usually administered intravenously, can last for several hours. You will need someone to drive you home after the procedure, as the effects of the sedation can linger for a while.
Your oral surgeon will provide you with specific instructions regarding post-operative care and any restrictions you should follow after the sedation. It's important to follow these guidelines to ensure a safe and comfortable recovery.
Am I going to feel anything under sedation?
If you're considering sedation dentistry, it's natural to have concerns about whether you will feel anything during the procedure. The goal of sedation dentistry treatment is to provide a comfortable and relaxing experience for patients who may have dental anxiety or fear. Depending on the level of sedation used, you may experience different sensations.
With mild sedation, such as such as nitrous oxide, you will likely remain awake and aware during the procedure, but you will feel more relaxed and less anxious. You may not feel any pain or discomfort, as local anesthesia can be used in conjunction with sedation to ensure your comfort
For moderate sedation, such as oral sedation, you will be in a deeper state of relaxation. While you may still be conscious, you may not remember much about the procedure afterward. You are likely to feel very relaxed and may experience a dream-like state.
With deep sedation, such as IV sedation, you will be in a state of unconsciousness. You will not feel anything during the procedure and will have no memory of it afterward. This level of sedation is typically reserved for more complex or invasive procedures.
It's important to discuss your concerns and preferences with your oral surgeon before the procedure. They will be able to recommend the most appropriate level of sedation based on your individual needs and the nature of the dental treatment you require.