Whether you’re getting your wisdom teeth removed or dental implants placed, you’ll likely need some type of sedation and anesthesia for your oral surgery. While anesthesia numbs the area being worked on, sedation keeps you relaxed. To ensure the highest level of care for his patients, Andrew R. Glenn, DDS in Lincoln, NE, offers several different sedation and anesthesia options for oral surgery procedures.

Sedation & Anesthesia Options From Dr. Glenn

1. Local Anesthesia

Typically reserved for simple procedures, local anesthetic is administered to a specific area of the mouth via injection. It works by halting the nerve signals to a localized area so the brain cannot register any pain. This type of anesthesia may be used for common dental procedures like fillings, crowns, and tooth extractions.

2. Nitrous Oxide

Contrary to what most people believe, nitrous oxide—better known as “laughing gas”—is not an anesthetic. Instead, it is a form of inhaled, light sedation, usually used in conjunction with local anesthesia. Under this light sedation, patients remain entirely conscious and can respond to questions or directions from their oral surgeon. The nickname “laughing gas” comes from the feelings of euphoria it produces in patients.

3. General Anesthesia

For a more invasive oral surgery, such as the removal of multiple impacted wisdom teeth, you may receive general anesthesia, which is administered intravenously. Unlike local anesthesia and nitrous oxide, general anesthesia puts you in a much deeper state of relaxation. You won’t experience any pain during your oral surgery or be conscious of what is happening. General anesthesia typically has an amnesic effect, so patients usually don’t remember anything from their procedure.

The type of anesthesia and sedation Dr. Glenn uses for your oral surgery will depend on several factors, such as the type of procedure and your level of anxiety. Rest assured that Dr. Glenn will select the options that will provide you with maximum comfort. To learn more about the sedation and anesthesia options available, call his office at (402) 421-3401. You can also find more information on their website.