05 Feb Oral Surgery: What are my sedation options?
When our oral surgeons perform certain treatments, various types of sedation may be involved to promote a positive experience and improve one’s care. Since many surgeries and procedures require accuracy and precision, sedation can help our team work without obstruction while our guests rest peacefully. Additionally, sedation—specifically the type delivered orally or through a nasal mask (nitrous oxide)—may be used to assuage the concerns of those with clinical phobias and anxiety.
In addition to nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation, our practice offers general anesthesia. IV sedation and general anesthesia produce strong results and are normally reserved for lengthy or complex treatment.
Nitrous Oxide and Oral Sedation
Nitrous oxide has been used in dentistry for over a century. This gas produces warm, euphoric feelings for patients and has both analgesic and anxiolytic effects. Nitrous oxide is a very mild form of sedation that wears off quickly after treatment.
Oral sedation involves the administration of sedatives in tablet form. These drugs normally come from the benzodiazepine class of medication such as Valium, Xanax, or Klonopin. Since these medications specifically target the chemical reaction in the brain that produces anxiety and nervousness, this type of sedation is very helpful for those with dental- and clinical-related anxiety.
IV Sedation and General Anesthesia
Complex and advanced treatment, such as full mouth rehabilitation or corrective procedures, may require the use of stronger medication. IV sedation is ideal for treatment that requires stillness and this method of delivering medication is effective for promoting patient comfort. General anesthesia, although delivered through an IV, is slightly stronger and patients will have no recollection of treatment.
When administering IV sedation or general anesthesia, our team takes all precautionary measures necessary to ensure the comfort and safety of our guests. We utilize state-of-the-art monitoring systems to track our patients’ vitals and our staff is trained to perform advanced life support in the event of an emergency.
To schedule a consultation with our oral surgeons at Central Oklahoma Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates, call our office today.