Dental Anesthesia

By Brian J. Gray, DDS, MAGD, FICOI

Patient comfort and care is a top priority for dentists. They recognize that anxiety or discomfort can be associated with some dental procedures. Fortunately, a variety of anesthetics are available to relieve both anxiety and discomfort.

Anxiety Relief and Pain Control

Local Anesthetic: This is the most frequently used type of anesthesia. Although often referred to as "Novocaine," this once popular painkilling drug has actually been replaced by more effective anesthetics such as Lidocaine. However, the name has become so much a part of the American vocabulary, it's now used in generic terms. Prior to injecting the local anesthetic, dentists often swab a topical anesthetic over the injection site to prevent feeling the pain of the needle.

Conscious Sedation: Patients can consult with their dentists to choose anti-anxiety agents either administered by mouth, inhalation, or injection. Nitrous oxide, often referred to as "laughing gas," helps to ease patient anxiety. The gas is inhaled by patients, inducing relaxation, so they can approach dental procedures with less stress.

Deep Sedation: This may be required for complex procedures or for patients with special needs. With the administration of general anesthesia, the patient is unconscious; with deep sedation, patients are deeply relaxed and not fully aware of their surroundings.

Consult With Your Dentist

Prior to treatment, your dentist will need to know a few things regarding your health history such as allergies, your current health condition, and any medications you may be taking. Some medicines may interfere with the efficiency of an anesthetic so may require an adjustment in your medication schedule. Your health history is very important information for the dentist. During the consultation, you can ask questions about any procedures that may be of concern.

A Concern for Safety

The drugs used for dental anesthesia are approved by the Food and Drug Administration and are safe. Anesthesia providers are professionals with a commitment to patient safety and comfort. Dental anesthesia can performed by a general dentist, a dental anesthesiologist, or an M.D. Certification is required and is regulated on a state-by-state basis if you are interested. Discuss sedation with your dentist at your next visit.