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Many patients are nervous before and during their oral surgery procedure, and sedation can be an extremely effective way to calm and relax them. This is especially true for pediatric sedation or patients with a less-than-perfect medical history. 

Sedation comes in different forms, including general anesthesia, IV sedation, and oral sedation.

Each type has its benefits and drawbacks, so it is essential to discuss your sedation options with your dentist or oral surgeon so you know what to expect before your procedure. Adequate sedation can help make your medical or dental procedure much less stressful and more comfortable overall.

If you want to learn more about the sedation options we offer, schedule a consultation with one of our oral surgeons. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have and help you choose the best sedation option for you. Ensuring our patients are comfortable and well-informed before deciding on their dental treatment is our top priority.

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, minimal sedation, or “laughing gas” is a mild form of local anesthesia inhaled through a mask placed over the nose. It begins to work within minutes and wears off fairly quickly after the patient stops breathing it in. Because of this, nitrous oxide sedation is often used for minor surgical procedures such as tooth extractions.

It is called “laughing gas” because some people feel a sense of euphoria or light-headedness when they first inhale it. However, overall it is a relatively safe and effective sedative.

Conscious Sedation

Conscious sedation, also known as oral conscious sedation, is moderate or deep sedation in which the patient takes a pill to relax them. This type of sedation is used for both short and lengthy procedures, and it generally will sedate the patient for several hours.

Some common side effects of oral conscious sedation include drowsiness, dizziness, and nausea. However, these side effects will wear off within a few hours after taking the medication.

Conscious sedation is typically used for anxious or claustrophobic patients or those who fear needles. This is ideal for people who prefer to be awake during their procedure but still have a sense of relaxation and calmness.

General Anesthesia

General anesthesia is a type of deep sedation in which the patient will fall asleep. It is the strongest form of sedation, and it is typically used for more complex procedures like wisdom teeth removal and oral surgery.

An anesthesiologist administered general anesthesia using an IV or by inhaling the gas. Next, the anesthesiologist will put the patient to sleep with a sedative and then monitor their heart rate, blood pressure, and other vital signs throughout the procedure.

Some of the most common side effects of general anesthesia include nausea and vomiting, drowsiness, and confusion. However, these side effects will wear off within a few hours after the patient wakes up.

Moderate Sedation

Moderate sedation, also known as twilight sedation, is a type of monitored anesthesia care that falls between conscious sedation and general anesthesia. The patient is not completely asleep, but they are also not fully awake. The sedation is administered through an IV and can be used for shorter and longer procedures, lasting several hours.

Some of the moderate sedation’s most common side effects include drowsiness and dizziness. However, these side effects usually wear off within a few hours after taking the medication.

This type of sedation is suitable for people who want to be highly relaxed during their procedure but who also want to be able to communicate with the doctor.

Benefits of Sedation

Sedation can provide several benefits for patients, including:

  • Reduced anxiety and fear
  • Pain management
  • Reduced need for anesthesia
  • Better cooperation during treatment

Sedation is a safe and effective way to help patients feel more comfortable during their oral surgery procedure. If you are considering sedation for an upcoming surgery, be sure to speak with your surgeon to learn more about the available options.

Set Up a Consultation Today!

At Strull Oral Surgery, patient satisfaction is our main focus, and we are committed to providing our patients with the best possible care. If you consider sedation for your upcoming oral surgery procedure, have questions about how sedation could be affected by existing medical conditions, or have general concerns about procedural sedation, please call us.

Our teams in Louisville, KY, and Seymour, IN, regularly provide sedation services and are knowledgeable in the latest techniques and best practices. We would be happy to set up a consultation with you to discuss your specific needs.

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Our goal is to see you at the best time for your schedule. Many times we can do an initial evaluation and procedure on the same day.

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