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Hearing phrases like “oral surgery” or “local anesthesia” are enough to make any dental patient nervous, but the team at Oral Surgery Associates works hard to alleviate any fears and concerns. Surgeons Dr. William F. Bergeron and Dr. Ray Holloway pride themselves on caring for patients with a gentle touch. They are committed to making oral surgery as comfortable as possible using different types of anesthesia.

Dental Surgery

There are several different anesthesia options available for dental surgery:

  • Local Anesthetic: This is a local dose of anesthesia applied to the area where the surgery is performed. An oral surgeon might use lidocaine to numb a section of the gums and prevent pain. With a local anesthetic, patients are conscious throughout the dental surgery.
  • Nitrous Oxide Sedation: This is also known as “sedation dentistry.” Nitrous oxide is administered through a nasal mask placed on the patient’s face during oral surgery. The mask releases a combination of oxygen and nitrous oxide, otherwise known as laughing gas, to promote relaxation. This is used in combination with a local anesthetic, and the patient is conscious throughout the procedure.
  • Office-Based Intravenous Anesthesia With Local Anesthetic: This type of anesthesia is offered to patients who need their wisdom teeth removed or to receive a dental implant. The oral surgeon provides medication through an intravenous line, or I.V. The patient falls asleep and is unconscious throughout the entire procedure. Supplemental oxygen is provided and the surgeon closely monitors the patient’s vital signs throughout the process.

  • Hospital Or Surgery Center-Based General Anesthesia: General Anesthesia is used in a hospital or surgery center for specific procedures like face or jaw reconstructive surgery. This situation requires an anesthesiologist. 

There is a variety of different dental procedures and methods of applying anesthesia. The team at Oral Surgery Associates in Anchorage, AK can help you make the best choice depending on your needs. Dr. Bergeron and Dr. Holloway are experts in their field: both are board certified in oral and maxillofacial surgery and have extensive training in hospital-based anesthesia and surgical procedures. They are currently on staff at Alaska Regional and Providence Hospitals and handle emergency situations that involve facial injuries.

If you’re considering a dental implant, removing your wisdom teeth, or any other type of cosmetic dental care, look no further than Oral Surgery Associates. Give them a call at (907) 561-1430 to schedule an appointment or visit their website

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