How We Keep You Comfortable

Comfort during your oral surgery procedure is an essential part of our practice philosophy. To address this, we offer many different options for anesthesia in our office. We determine the type of anesthetic to use based on how invasive the procedure is and how the patient feels about the procedure overall. Our oral surgeons are licensed by the Michigan Board of Dentistry to administer every type of anesthesia offered.

Local anesthesia, or numbing medicine, is used in every procedure. On its own, it completely numbs a small area and is perfect for procedures like basic tooth extractions, dental implants or minor soft tissue work. The patient remains totally conscious, and, therefore, isn’t left with any lingering mental cloudiness or disorientation.

Nitrous oxide sedation, or “laughing gas,” is commonly used for simple surgeries, implants and extracting wisdom teeth. A mix of nitrous oxide and oxygen is inhaled through the nose by the patient. Patients generally will remain awake and aware of their surroundings, but in a deeply relaxed state. It’s possible for patients to fall asleep, but they can be woken up easily.

IV sedation

Office-based sedation anesthesia uses medications administered through an IV. The patient will fall asleep and be mostly unaware of the procedure. With a comprehensive health evaluation, it’s available for all oral surgeries, even simple ones if a patient is feeling anxious. This method is commonly used for wisdom teeth removal and dental implants. While it’s possible to drift between shallow consciousness and sleep, the patient will always be comfortable. The use of an IV allows for a very safe sedation that uses the minimum amount of medication required. Because it can be done in our office, it also avoids the expense of having the procedure done at a hospital or surgery center.

General anesthesia administered by an anesthesiologist at a hospital or surgery center is generally only selected for patients undergoing extensive procedures or reconstructions. Patients with health conditions that require it, such as heart or lung disease, will also receive it.

Your oral surgeon will help you pick the type of sedation that’s best for you and for the procedure you’re having. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or tell you oral surgeon about any concerns that you have regarding your procedure.