At Balaci Oral and Facial Surgery, we want to provide you with the most comfortable and relaxed surgical experience possible. It is not uncommon for some patients to feel nervous or anxious about their upcoming treatment. That is why Dr. Balaci offers multiple options for sedation/anesthesia and will help you determine which option is best for you prior to your procedure. The anesthesia/sedation method used for your surgery is dependent on the type of procedure being performed as well as your personal preference.
What types of anesthesia does Dr. Balaci offer?
- Local Anesthesia: A local anesthetic is administered in the area that the surgery is performed and can be used in conjunction with other anesthetic options, such as nitrous oxide.
- Nitrous Oxide Sedation: Nitrous oxide sedation, also known as laughing gas, is commonly utilized when patients experience mild to severe anxiety before the procedure. A mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen is administered through a nasal breathing apparatus.
- Intravenous (IV) Sedation: IV sedation is administered through an intravenous line and allows the patient to fall completely asleep throughout the procedure. This option allows for varying degrees of anesthetic depth tailored to the needs of the patient. IV anesthesia is commonly used to facilitate surgical procedures, such as wisdom teeth removal, dental implant placement, bone grafting, and many other semi-invasive surgical procedures. This anesthetic option can also be utilized when patients experience a high level of anxiety.
- Hospital or Surgery Center-Based General Anesthesia: If you undergo an extensive procedure, such as facial trauma surgery or jaw reconstruction, you may undergo general anesthesia in a hospital or surgery center, which is administered by an anesthesiologist.
Is my oral surgeon qualified to administer anesthesia during my procedure?
Unlike many practitioners, oral and maxillofacial surgeons have obtained first-hand experience administering operating room anesthesia during their required hospital residency, as well as their training in office surgical facilities. All oral and maxillofacial surgeons are required to complete extensive hands-on surgical training to obtain their credentials and must earn the highest level of licensure possible for dental practitioners, making them the most qualified candidates to perform anesthesia in an office setting.
