When we work with dental and oral surgery providers, every patient we come into contact with requires anesthesia of one kind or another. Whether it’s a complex procedure such as bone grafting or a more simple wisdom teeth removal, anesthesia brings pain relief and eases nerves during surgery.
Here are a few different ways a patient may be anesthetized during a procedure:
Local Anesthetic
Provided by the dentist or oral surgeon themselves, local anesthetic allows you to remain conscious during the surgery. An anesthetic is injected in and around the surgery area and may be used alongside any other form of anesthesia during a surgery procedure.
Simple, minimally invasive procedures, such as extractions, can be done with local anesthesia alone. Some people even choose to have wisdom teeth removed with only local, though most these days opt to be fully sedated.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
“Laughing Gas” can be used during simple and more complex procedures. From wisdom teeth removal to implant insertion, nitrous oxide can be a good option.
Before and during surgery, a mix of nitrous oxide and oxygen is inhaled, allowing you to stay conscious yet relaxed. It calms you and helps control pain.
IV Sedation
IV sedation can be provided during all types of oral surgery, and even for your dental cleaning if you have excessive anxiety about coming to the dentist. Most people who undergo complex dental or oral surgery procedures utilize IV sedation to be fully unconscious during their procedure.
Many dentists are certified to do this on their own, without the presence of a CRNA. In order to offer this, your oral surgeon
has received additional hospital-based anesthesia training
undertaken an in-office assessment by an examiner from the state dental board
has passed certification, including having had all monitoring and emergency equipment tested
Many dental and oral surgeons now opt to utilize the skills of a CRNA, such as Lanners Anesthesia, to provide their patients with sedation care throughout the surgery. A CRNA has completed:
Master’s Degree
3 years of study
1-2 years minimum of in-hospital anesthesia residency
additional ongoing certification
General Anesthesia
General anesthesia can only be provided by a CRNA or anesthesiologist. It is generally offered for those who need extensive work done, such as TMJ surgery or face and jaw reconstruction. It may also be best if you have a medical condition that calls for special attention.
It is our job to ensure patient safety during your procedure. If you have questions or concerns about the type of anesthesia you are going to receive, please reach out to us directly or contact your dentist or oral surgeon.