Anesthesia

This page contains all of the information you need to understand the types of anesthesia available and how they can help reduce your discomfort during oral surgery. We will also provide some information about the anesthesia we use at Yanich Oral Surgery.

Types of Anesthesia Used in Oral Surgery

Several methods of anesthesia are available. The method of anesthesia that is chosen for or by a patient depends upon the nature of the surgical procedure and the patient’s level of apprehension.

Local Anesthetic

Local anesthetics are often used along with other types of medication for all oral surgeries, such as minor soft tissue procedures and simple tooth extractions.

With this anesthesia option,the patient will be fully awake during the surgery and only given a local anesthetic, like lidocaine, in the area where the procedure will happen.

Nitrous Oxide Sedation With Local Anesthetic

The patient inhales a mixture of Nitrous Oxide(laughing gas) and oxygen through a nasal breathing apparatus. The patient remains conscious in a relaxed condition. Nitrous oxide has a sedative and analgesic (pain- controlling) effect.

This anesthesia is typically used for simple oral surgery procedures like tooth extractions or something more complex like wisdom teeth removal or dental implants.

Office-Based General Anesthesia With Local Anesthetic

Although general anesthesia is available for all types of oral surgery, some patients may only need it if they’re anxious about the procedure. Depending on the surgery, local anesthesia might suffice. However, this usually isn’t the case when an infection is present.

The medications are administered intravenously (I.V.) and the patient falls asleep and is unaware of the procedure. Extra oxygen is delivered through a nasal breathing apparatus, and your dental provider will constantly monitor your vital signs.

Note: An oral surgeon can administer general anesthesia in the office once they have completed at least three months of hospital-based training. If qualified, the applicant will then undergo an evaluation done in the office by a state dental board-appointed examiner. The examination involves observing an actual surgical procedure that requires general anesthesia. You may also visit AAOMS website for information at https://www.aaoms.org/practice-resources/anesthesia

Hospital or Surgery Center Based General Anesthesia

This type of anesthesia is for patients admitted to a hospital or surgery center. An anesthesiologist will administer the anesthesia for patients having long surgeries, like face and jaw reconstruction or TMJ surgery. Also indicated for patients with medical conditions such as heart disease or lung disease who require general anesthesia.

Yanich Oral Surgery: Anesthesia Options

Dr. Jason Yanich offers general anesthesia, IV sedation, and Nitrous Oxide, depending on the level of anxiety and surgical requirements for each patient. Nevertheless, comfort and security are always our top priorities. So, if you have questions or concerns regarding the anesthesia during your oral surgery, feel free to ask Dr. Yanich during your appointment.

Intravenous Sedation
(Twilight Sedation)

Dr. Yanich offers Intravenous sedation, also known as “IV sedation” or twilight sedation. The purpose of IV sedation is to use minimal medication while completing the treatment efficiently.

IV sedation is a very safe method compared to oral sedation. With IV sedation, your treatment can be completed while you sleep peacefully. Although, sometimes, you may not fall asleep; you will still be comfortable and calm.

These are some concerns that might arise when patients are administered IV sedation:

Some patients may fall asleep, while others drift in and out of sleep. Depending on the patient's medical conditions and/or drug regimens, some patients will not sleep despite being lightly sedated.

Dr. Yanich’s IV Sedation Process

The process involves inserting a thin catheter into one of the patient’s veins. The catheter will then be attached to an intravenous tube, providing a method for administering a medication that makes you feel relaxed and comfortable.

The small tube inserted into your vein will constantly release medication. If necessary, an antidote can be administered at any time to reverse the effects of the sedative.

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

Nitrous oxide is a sweet-smelling, non-irritating gas that you can breathe. For many years in dentistry, it has been the primary means of sedation. Nitrous oxide is safe since patients receive only 30% or less nitrous oxide and 50-70% oxygen. As a result, you can breathe comfortably and remain in control of all bodily functions. However, you may experience mild amnesia and fall asleep without remembering everything from your appointment.

These are some of the considerations of using nitrous oxide:

The level of sedation can be increased or decreased as needed.
It has no negative effects and wears off quickly.
It works rapidly, reaching the brain within a couple of minutes.
It does not affect the respiratory and cardiovascular systems.
Almost every patient is a potential candidate for using nitrous oxide.