There are many factors to consider when you find you or a loved one will be needing oral surgery. Whether you are the patient, or when you have a child in need of wisdom tooth extraction, or an older parent in need of implant dentures, the experienced oral surgeons in Rohnert Park, CA are a trusted resource. It is natural to be concerned about how you can expect your oral surgeon to maintain a patient’s comfort level during and after a procedure.
A Brief Review of Types of Sedation
Dental sedation takes a variety of forms. Before deciding on the optimal choice, we will consult on the patient’s overall health, their age, medications being taken, the specific of oral surgery procedure, any anxiety a patient is experiencing, and other factors. These all impact our recommendation for dental sedation.
- Local anesthetic numbs the area that will undergo a procedure.
- Nitrous Oxide (also known as laughing gas) is administered through the nose, and infuses the patient with an overall sense of calm and well-being.
- Oral Sedatives are prescription drugs, usually taken a few hours in advance, on the day of the surgery.
- IV Sedation is administered directly into the bloodstream. A patient is drowsy and may fall asleep during the procedure. Intravenous (IV) sedation produces a state sometimes called “twilight sleep.”
- General Anesthesia is the deepest form of sedation, and means a patient is unconscious for the period of time when the anesthesia is in force.
What Happens When Sedation Stops?
Depending on the form of sedation, and individual sensitivities, each patient will notice differing effects. Nitrous oxide is cleared from the system almost immediately, and patients can usually drive themselves home, or back to work. Oral sedatives, IV sedation and general anesthesia remain in the system longer, and will require that the patient be monitored longer in the office. Patients cannot drive themselves home.
Is There Pain Once the Sedation Wears Off?
There may be discomfort after an oral surgery procedure, but we will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions, to help you be comfortable. If you have questions, or experience unexpected discomfort, our knowledgable staff can answer questions and help you find relief.
Don’t Let Sedation Concerns Keep You From Care
Don’t let the fear of discomfort keep you from getting the oral surgery procedures you need. Whether you have a small amount of anxiety, or a deep concern, we can answer the sedation questions on your mind. Schedule the time you need in Rohnert Park, CA by calling Santa Rosa Oral Surgery at 707-545-4625 to schedule your visit today.
