Anesthesia/Sedation
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, sometimes referred to as “laughing gas,” is an effective and safe sedation agent that is inhaled through a mask that fits over your nose to help you relax. Mixed with oxygen, Nitrous oxide allows you to breathe normally through your nose and within minutes you should start to feel the effects. You may feel light-headed or a tingling in your arms and legs. Some patient’s comment that their legs and arms feel heavy. Ultimately, you should feel comfortable and calm. The effects of nitrous oxide wear of quickly after the small mask is removed. Talk to the doctor about whether nitrous oxide would be a good option for you.
IV Sedation and General Anesthesia
Our highly qualified staff is trained to provide both IV sedation and general anesthesia in our office.
IV sedation is an alternative sedation that allows patients to be unconscious during their procedure. Your doctor will combine the use of IV sedation along with a local anesthetic so you have little to no discomfort and will have no memory of the procedure.
General Anesthesia renders patients completely unconscious through the use of IV medication as well as inhaled anesthetics. While under general anesthesia, your brain is unable to respond to pain or reflexes.
For both IV Sedation and General Anesthesia, our patients’ vital signs, such as blood pressure and heart rate, are continuously monitored by our trained staff. Patients should plan to have someone bring them to the appointment and be available to drive them home following treatment.