Anesthesia

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Anesthesia

Anesthesia helps minimize the discomfort or anxiety you may feel during treatment. We offer oral conscious sedation, nitrous oxide, and IV sedation. The anesthesiologist will discuss which type is best for you before treatment.

anesthesia being administered in a dental office

Our Anesthesia Services

  • Oral Conscious Sedation

Oral conscious sedation doesn’t “knock you out” like some other forms of anesthesia. Instead, you remain awake during the procedure but in a heightened state of relaxation. It’s also possible that you will not remember some, or even all, of your procedure.

  • Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas,” is an inhaled type of minimal sedation that is combined with oxygen through a mask placed over your nose. Your oral surgeon controls the amount of sedation you receive; the gas typically wears off quickly. Nitrous oxide helps you feel at ease during oral surgery and is the only form of sedation where you may be able to drive yourself home following the procedure.

  • IV Sedation

IV sedation is safe and easy, which is why it’s often recommended for moderate to severe anxiety. Medication is given right into your bloodstream and works quickly and effectively. You will remain awake during your procedure but will be in a heightened state of relaxation. It is also possible that you will not remember part or all of your procedure afterward.

As an added precaution, a local anesthetic will be given to the area that is being worked on to ensure there is no pain. Your heart rate and breathing are monitored very closely while you are medicated because your safety is our number one concern.

Anesthesia FAQs

Who is a candidate for sedation?

You may be a good candidate for sedation if:

  • You have dental anxiety.

  • You fear pain.

  • You had a traumatic dental or surgical experience in the past.

  • You get nauseated by the sounds and smells of an oral surgery office.

  • You have a bad gag reflex.

  • You have very sensitive teeth.

Will I be unconscious?

No, but you will be in a deep state of relaxation during your treatment. You will still be able to breathe on your own and communicate, but you will not feel any pain or anxiety. You may not even remember the procedure afterward.

How long will I be sedated?

Sedation can last approximately an hour, depending on the strength of the sedative you are given and how long your procedure takes.

Will I be monitored?

Yes, at all times during your sedation, someone will be with you. We also monitor your vitals to make sure they remain at a normal level. Your safety is of the utmost importance to us.

What procedures can be performed under sedation?

Just about any procedure can be performed with sedation. The sedation is not for the procedure itself, but for the anxiety that accompanies the procedure. Ask your oral surgeon if sedation is available for a particular procedure.

Will my insurance cover sedation?

In most cases, sedation will not be covered by your insurance provider. We will review your insurance coverage to make sure. If it is not covered, we will let you know the cost. If necessary, we can put together a financing plan for you.

Want to Know More About the Anesthesia Procedures Available at Our Office?

Please don’t hesitate to contact us. We have offices in Plantation, Coral Springs, Aventura, and Pembroke Pines.