When it comes to oral surgery, one of the primary concerns for patients is managing pain and anxiety during the procedure. At Cherry Orchard Oral & Implant Surgery, we understand the importance of providing a comfortable experience. To achieve this, we offer different types of dental anesthesia tailored to your specific needs.
1. Local Anesthesia (Lidocaine):
Local anesthesia, often erroneously referred to as “Novocaine,” has been the cornerstone of pain management in dentistry for years. It’s an injection that targets a specific area, providing localized pain relief without affecting the entire body. Local anesthesia, such as Lidocaine, effectively blocks the nerve fibers responsible for producing pain. This option is typically recommended for simple procedures like single tooth extractions or minor oral surgery.
2. Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas):
Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is valuable in managing anxiety and nerves during oral surgery. It’s a safe and mild option that allows patients to stay awake and be aware throughout the procedure, while experiencing a sense of euphoria, tingling, and relaxation. Nitrous oxide is inhaled through a mask or a nasal hood and delivers a controlled level of sedation, often leaving patients feeling blissful and calm. This option is ideal for individuals who want to drive themselves after the appointment, but still want to feel more at ease during surgery without going completely under.
3. Deep Sedation or General Anesthesia:
For more complex procedures or for patients who experience extreme anxiety, we offer intravenous (IV) sedation. Dr. Brian R. Cherry is extensively trained and certified in this type of anesthesia. IV sedation involves administering medication directly into the patient’s bloodstream, inducing deep sedation or general anesthesia. In this state, patients breathe independently but won’t be aware of the procedure or remember it afterwards. To ensure the safety of IV sedation, we perform a comprehensive review of the patient’s medical history during their consultation, considering factors like heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, and other health conditions.
General anesthesia is typically reserved for extensive oral surgery procedures, such as multiple tooth extractions and wisdom teeth removal. Under general anesthesia, the patient is completely unconscious, ensuring they feel no pain and have no recollection of the surgery. This option is particularly suitable for those who prefer not to be awake during the procedure.
At Cherry Orchard Oral & Implant Surgery, we take a personalized approach to determining the most appropriate type of anesthesia for each patient. We understand that oral surgery can be a stressful life event for some people, and our mission is to create a welcoming, family-like environment for our patients. Dr. Cherry has a steadfast commitment to the well-being of every patient, ensuring their anxiety levels are at a minimum and their comfort levels and safety are prioritized.
From your first phone call to the moment you leave our care, our dedicated staff is here to provide knowledge, education, and a sense of ease. We believe in the importance of individualized care and a patient-centric approach to oral surgery, striving to ensure your experience is as pleasant and easy as possible.
Contact Cherry Orchard Oral & Implant Surgery today to learn more about our dental anesthesia options and how we can cater to your unique needs.