Anesthesia Options

Local anesthesia is always used for surgery, but you may choose any of those listed below as a supplement. Each choice requires different preparation for your safety. It is important that you read and follow the instructions carefully. If you are unclear about anything, please ask your doctor.

For all surgery, please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Those receiving intravenous medication should wear shirts that have sleeves that can be easily drawn up above the elbow. Females should remove nail polish on at least one finger, and apply as little make-up as possible.

It is important to advise your doctor of all of the medications that you are taking, as well as any changes in your health since your last visit. Unless specified by your dentist, please continue to take any medication as per your normal routine with a small sip of water. If you are taking a blood thinner such as aspirin, plavix or coumadin please discuss the appropriate management with your physician. Generally, most individuals go off blood thinners for 2 to five days prior to their procedure, but each situation is unique based on the specific type of procedure and personal health history.

Local Anesthesia – Provides a numb feeling in the area being treated. You will be awake and will recall the surgery, but there will be no discomfort.

• Have a light meal a few hours prior to your procedure
• For more extensive procedures you may want to have someone drive you home.
• Plan to rest for a few hours after your procedure.

Oral Pre-medications – Local anesthesia (above) or Nitrous oxide (below) may be supplemented with oral pre-medication, which will help enhance relaxation before and during your procedure.

• Take the medication at the time directed before your procedure, usually one hour prior to your appointment.
• Have a light meal a few hours prior to your procedure. You must have someone drive you to and from our office.
• Plan to rest for the remainder of the day. Do not make important decisions or operate power tools, machinery, etc for 24 hours after your procedure.

Nitrous Oxide – also known as “laughing gas” or “sweet air.” You will be relaxed and somewhat less aware of your surroundings, but will recall most of the procedure. Nitrous oxide in used in conjunction with local anesthesia, but also may be used to supplement the choices below.

• You may have a light meal up to four (4) hours prior to your procedure. Liquids are permissible up until two hours prior to your appointment.
• For more extensive procedures you may want to have someone drive you home.
• Plan to rest for a few hours after your procedure.

Intravenous Sedation/General Anesthesia – Medications are given through a vein in your arm or hand, which will cause total relaxation. There will be very little recall, if any of the events surrounding your procedure.

• You may not have anything to eat or drink for six (6) hours prior to your procedure. Clear liquids such as water, coffee tea, seltzer, apple or grape juice, etc are permissible up until three (3) hours prior to your appointment. Beverages such as milk, milkshakes, yogurt drinks, orange or grapefruit juices are not recommended.
• Take any regular medication with only enough water to get the pills down.
• You must have someone drive you home.
• Plan to rest for the remainder of the day. Do not make important decisions or operate power tools, machinery, etc for 24 hours after your procedure.

Special Instructions – Do not ignore a head or chest cold when nitrous oxide, intravenous sedation or general anesthesia is to be utilized. Call immediately if any symptoms are present as a change of appointment may be necessary. This time has been reserved for you. Please provide 48 hours notice if you are unable to keep your appointment.