In-Office Anesthesia Virginia Beach, VALocal AnesthesiaLocal anesthesia is one of the most common forms of anesthesia. It is used to numb the treatment area by blocking the nerves that transmit pain. There are two types of local anesthesia, topical and injectable. Topical anesthesia is one that is applied directly to the surface of the tissue. It is used to soothe a specific area of your mouth and is often used before a local injectable anesthetic. An injectable anesthetic is one that is injected into the soft tissue with a needle. Nitrous OxideNitrous oxide, more commonly known as laughing gas, is the mildest form of dental sedation. It is a gas that is administered through a small mask worn over the nose. The nitrous oxide is mixed with oxygen. You breathe in the combination of gases, and the sedation takes effect almost immediately. With nitrous oxide, you are still completely conscious and able to respond when asked questions. It works to help you feel relaxed and at ease, essentially taking the edge off. It also helps to reduce your gag reflex and increase your pain threshold. When your procedure is complete, the gas is shut off. The effects wear off about as quickly as they take effect and you are back to your old self in no time. IV SedationIV sedation is a type of sedation that is a type of sedation that is administered directly into your bloodstream through a small needle inserted into your arm or the back of your hand. This type of sedation is a form of moderate conscious sedation. This means that you are still conscious, but the medication makes you feel sleepy. Many patients do not remember parts, or even any, of their procedure. Because the medication is administered directly into your bloodstream, it takes effect almost immediately. The effects of the sedation linger for several hours after your appointment is over, making it necessary to have someone with you who can drive you home. General AnesthesiaGeneral anesthesia is the strongest form of sedation available. With general anesthesia, you sleep throughout the duration of your treatment. This type of sedation is typically recommended for those with severe anxiety or those who need more complex treatments. Like IV sedation, general anesthesia is administered directly into your bloodstream through a small needle. You sleep throughout your entire procedure and do not remember a thing. Once your procedure is over, another medication is provided to help you wake up. Again, like IV sedation, the effects of general anesthesia can linger for several hours. It is important that you have someone with you who can drive you home once your appointment is over. Anesthesia enables you to feel much more relaxed and comfortable, allowing us to provide you with the effective care you need. Call Rai Oral Surgery & Dental Implants today at (757) 777-9883 to learn more. |
