Anesthesia and Pain Relief

For your comfort, you have the option of having surgery performed under general anesthesia, where you are fully asleep, or with light sedation combined with local anesthesia.

Local Anesthesia
With local anesthesia, the patient is fully awake during the surgery.  This type of anesthesia is preferred for simple procedures and for patients who experience very little anxiety.  An injection of medication numbs the area where surgery will be performed.  Local anesthesia alone is not recommended for patients who are uncomfortable with noises associated with oral surgery (popping, grinding).

Light Sedation
Intravenous sedation, or “IV sedation” is also referred to as “twilight” sleep. This is designed to help patients relax during surgery and to alleviate the anxiety that some patients experience.

General Anesthesia
Oral surgeons are uniquely trained and qualified to provide general anesthesia. This expertise assures that patients can be fully asleep and comfortable during surgery. Advanced monitoring equipment is used throughout the procedure and during the recovery period in the office.

For more content regarding anesthesia, visit: AAOMS/Anesthesia.