Anesthesia

Anxiety is normal when facing surgery. If a person is apprehensive, a past traumatic experience can increase the anxiety. The primary goal of our team is to ensure your procedure is smooth, safe, and comfortable. After your doctor examines you, he will make recommendations for the type of anesthesia best suited to your procedure. These will be recommendations only, as the type of anesthesia will ultimately be decided by you.

Local anesthesia (“Novocaine”)

Novocaine also known as procaine hydrochloride, is a local anesthetic that is commonly used during dental procedures, like cavity fillings. It often works very quickly and its effects don’t usually last long.The surgical area will be numbed with an injection and the procedure will then be performed. Depending on the type of procedure, there will be varying degrees of noise and pressure, but you should not experience any discomfort. If you have a high level of anxiety and any pressure is perceived as uncomfortable for you, you may prefer another option.

Oral Sedation with Local Anesthesia

You will be given an oral premedication (Valium) to take prior to your arrival that will decrease your level of anxiety. The procedure itself will be performed identical to the option above. The premedication gives additional relaxation and comfort. The first dose should be taken two hours prior to the appointment. If this first dose is insufficient after one hour, please take the second dose. However, if the first dose has a profound effect (drowsiness, loss of coordination, loss of balance), do NOT take the second dose. You will still be aware of the procedure, but will be much more relaxed. With this method of anesthesia, you will be cognitively impaired. Therefore, you cannot come to the appointment alone. You must be accompanied by an adult who will drive you to and from our office.