Anesthesia
Several methods of anesthesia are available. The method of anesthesia that is chosen for or by a patient depends upon the nature of the surgical procedure and the patient’s level of apprehension. The following table illustrates the choices of anesthesia, a description of the anesthetic technique, and the usual indications for that technique.
| Method of Anesthesia | Description of Technique | Usual Indications |
| Local Anesthetic | The patient remains totally conscious throughout the procedure. A local anesthetic (e.g. lidocaine) is administered in the area where the surgery is to be performed. | 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. | Simple oral surgery procedures to more involved procedures such as removal of wisdom teeth and placement of dental implants. |
| Office Based General Anesthesia with Local Anesthetic* | Medications are administered through an intravenous line (I.V.). The patient falls asleep and is unaware of the procedure being performed. Supplemental oxygen is delivered through a nasal breathing apparatus and the patient’s vital signs are closely monitored. | General anesthesia is available for all types of oral surgery. A patient may choose general anesthesia for simple procedures depending on their level of anxiety. Most people having their wisdom teeth removed or having a dental implant placed will choose general anesthesia. |
| Hospital or Surgery Center Based General Anesthesia | A patient is admitted to a hospital or surgery center where anesthesia is administered by an anesthesiologist. | Indicated for patients undergoing extensive procedures such as face and jaw reconstruction and TMJ surgery. Also indicated for patients with certain medical conditions. |
Intravenous Sedation (“Twilight Sedation”)
Our office offers our patients the option of Intravenous Sedation or Dental Intravenous Anesthesia or to some it is referred to as “Twilight Sedation” for their dental treatment. Intravenous sedation or “IV sedation” will enable you to tolerate as well as not remember those procedures that may be very uncomfortable or cause anxiety for you.
If you choose the option of intravenous sedation your IV sedation/anesthesia is administered and monitored by Dr. Boghossian therefore eliminating the costly expense of having your treatment carried out in an operating room or same day surgical facility.
How is the IV Sedation Administered?
A thin needle will be introduced into a vein in your arm or hand. The needle retracts leaving only a thin plastic tube in your arm during the procedure. The plastic tube will be attached to an intravenous tube through which medication will be given to help you relax and feel comfortable.