Anesthesia

Several methods of anesthesia and sedation are available to help you feel comfortable during dental treatment. The appropriate option depends on your procedure, medical history, and level of anxiety. Dr. Strickland will discuss your options and answer your questions during your consultation.

Anesthesia Options

Our office offers local anesthesia, nitrous oxide, and intravenous moderate conscious sedation. The following information explains how each option may be used.

  • Types of Anesthesia
  • Method Local Anesthetic
    Description of Technique A local anesthetic is administered to numb the treatment area. You remain awake and may still feel pressure or movement. Local anesthesia may also be used with sedation.
    Usual Indications Procedures requiring a numb treatment area, including tooth extractions and dental implant placement.
  • Method Nitrous Oxide with Local Anesthetic
    Description of Technique A mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen is delivered through a small mask over your nose to help you relax. You remain awake and able to communicate. Local anesthesia numbs the treatment area.
    Usual Indications Selected dental procedures for patients who would benefit from additional help managing anxiety.
  • Method Intravenous Moderate Conscious Sedation with Local Anesthetic
    Description of Technique Sedation medication is administered through an IV to help you relax. During moderate conscious sedation, you remain able to respond to verbal instructions or gentle touch. Local anesthesia numbs the treatment area.
    Usual Indications Selected procedures and patients whose treatment needs or anxiety make IV sedation appropriate following an evaluation.

Intravenous Sedation (“Twilight Sedation”)

Our office offers intravenous moderate conscious sedation, sometimes called “twilight sedation,” for appropriate patients. IV sedation helps reduce anxiety and promotes relaxation during dental treatment.

You may feel drowsy and remember less of the procedure, but sleep and complete memory loss are not guaranteed. Moderate conscious sedation allows you to respond to instructions during treatment.

Dr. Strickland will review your medical history, medications, and treatment needs before recommending IV sedation. Your response to the medication and vital signs are monitored throughout the procedure.

How Is IV Sedation Administered?

A small IV catheter is placed into a vein in your arm or hand. Sedation medication is administered through the IV and adjusted according to your response and treatment needs. The IV remains in place during treatment so medication can be administered as needed.

Local anesthesia is also used to numb the treatment area. The amount of sedation medication is individualized, and your level of relaxation may differ from that of another patient.

Before your appointment, our team will provide instructions about fasting, medications, transportation, and recovery. Follow these instructions carefully, and arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you afterward as directed.

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

Nitrous oxide is administered with oxygen through a small mask over your nose. It can help reduce anxiety while you remain awake and able to communicate with the dental team. Local anesthesia may also be used to numb the treatment area.

The amount of nitrous oxide can be adjusted during treatment. Its effects generally wear off quickly after it is stopped, although your provider will assess your recovery and give you instructions before you leave.

Potential Benefits of Nitrous Oxide

  • Helps reduce anxiety during dental treatment.
  • Can be adjusted to your comfort and treatment needs.
  • Usually takes effect quickly.
  • May help reduce a sensitive gag reflex.
  • Generally allows a relatively quick recovery after administration ends.

Is Nitrous Oxide Right for You?

Nitrous oxide is not appropriate for everyone. Tell Dr. Strickland about your medical conditions, medications, pregnancy status, and any previous reactions to sedation. Nasal congestion or difficulty breathing through your nose may also affect whether this option is suitable.

Our team will review your health history and explain the benefits, risks, and alternatives before recommending an anesthesia or sedation plan.