The following table illustrates the choices of anesthesia, a description of the anesthetic technique, and the usual indications for that technique.
| Method | Description of Technique | Usual Indications |
| Local Anesthetic | The patient remains totally conscious throughout the procedure. A topical anesthetic is first applied to numb the site and then a local anesthetic (e.g. lidocaine) is administered in the area where the surgery is to be performed. Local anesthetic is used in conjunction with the other methods of anesthesia in all oral surgery procedures. | Simple oral surgery procedures such as minor soft tissue procedures and simple tooth extractions. |
| Nitrous Oxide Sedation with Local Anesthetic |
A mixture of nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oxygen is administered through a nasal breathing apparatus. The patient remains conscious in a relaxed condition. Nitrous oxide has a sedative and analgesic (pain- controlling) effect. Once the nitrous oxide is shut off, the gas immediately leaves your system so you will be able to safely drive home on your own.
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Simple oral surgery and more involved procedures for someone who is extremely anxious about dental treatment. |
NITROUS OXIDE (LAUGHING GAS)
Nitrous Oxide is a sweet smelling, non irritating, colorless gas which you can breathe. Nitrous Oxide has been the primary means of sedation in dentistry for many years. Nitrous oxide is safe; the patient receives 50-70% oxygen with no less than 30% nitrous oxide. Patients are able to breathe on their own and remain in control of all bodily functions. The patient may experience mild amnesia and may fall asleep not remembering all of what happened during their appointment.
There are many advantages to using Nitrous Oxide
Though there are no major contraindications to using nitrous oxide, you may not want to use it if you have emphysema, M.S., a cold or other difficulties with breathing. You may want to ask your dentist for a “5 minute trial” to see how you feel with this type of sedation method before proceeding.
