Has your dentist informed you that you need to undergo a dental procedure? If so, you might have some questions about the pain. Many people have anxiety about dental treatment, mainly due to the perceived pain. Dental anxiety can lead to delays in getting dental treatment. It is helpful to realize that anesthesia ensures patient comfort during dental procedures. You can find out the types of anesthesia available for dental treatments. 
 

Types of Dental Anesthesia

Anesthesia describes a loss or lack of sensation, and it can involve being conscious or unconscious. There are different options available for dental use, and they work in different ways. They are individualized to ensure a successful and safe procedure. 

Sedation options can be used alone or combined to provide a better effect. The choice depends on the length of the procedure, the patient’s age, and health condition. The patient’s previous reaction to anesthesia will also determine the best option. 

Local Anesthesia 

Most dental clinics use local anesthesia to numb patients’ mouths before procedures. They do this by injecting the anesthesia into the gum to numb it within a few minutes. The patient remains awake during the procedure, feeling reduced sensations. Local anesthesia is useful for short dental procedures, such as dental fillings. 

The patient does not experience pain. The anesthetics are available in ointment, gel, spray, liquid, injectable, and cream forms. Patients who require procedures that take longer will need to be under sedation for longer. 

Sedation Dentistry 

Patients who require lengthy procedures or extensive dental work require deeper sedation. A sedative is usually administered alongside local anesthesia to ensure optimum comfort. Types of sedation include oral sedation or medication, nitrous oxide or laughing gas, and IV sedation. The dentist will recommend the best sedation depending on the procedure and the patient’s requirements. Depending on the type and dosage of the sedation, patients will be in a conscious or semi-conscious state. 

General Anesthesia 

Patients who require lengthy dental procedures can get general anesthesia (GA), where they will be unconscious throughout. These patients' muscles are relaxed, feel no pain, and usually experience amnesia after the procedure.

This form of anesthesia, administered through IV or face mask, helps patients with extreme dental anxiety or dental phobia. The level will depend on the procedure and the patient. There are more risks associated with general anesthesia than other forms of anesthesia. 

Factors Affecting Success of Anesthesia

The effectiveness of dental anesthesia will depend on several factors. The factors include:

·      Drugs in use. 

·      The site under anesthesia.

·      The sedation procedure. 

·      The timing. 

·      If the patient has inflammation. 

Dental visits have the reputation of being uncomfortable. Most of the procedures have the potential to be painful or uncomfortable. Anesthesia helps ease the experience. The dentist will discuss the situations and conditions when to use dental anesthesia. As a patient, you need to ask about the side effects, risks, and safety precautions. 
 

For more on the types of anesthesia available for dental treatments, visit Weston Center for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at our office in Weston, Florida. You can call (954) 507-6441 today to schedule an appointment.