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. 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. |
| Office Based General Anesthesia with Local Anesthetic* | Medications are administered through an intravenous line (I.V.). The patient falls asleep and is completely unaware of the procedure being performed. Medications most commonly used are Fentanyl (opiate), Versed (benzodiazepine), Ketamine, and Diprivan. 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. Many people having their wisdom teeth removed or having a dental implant placed will choose general anesthesia. General anesthesia may be necessary if local anesthesia fails to anesthetize the surgical site which often occurs in the presence of infection. |
| 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 medical conditions such as heart disease or lung disease who require general anesthesia. |
To administer general anesthesia in the office, an oral surgeon must have completed hospital based anesthesia training. A general anesthesia permit is required in the state of California. The permit requires the completion of periodic on site examinations performed by state board appointed examiners.
The examiners observe an actual surgical procedure during which general anesthesia is administered to the patient. The examiners also inspect all monitoring devices and emergency equipment. The doctor and the surgical staff are tested on anesthesia related emergencies. If the examiners report successful completion of the evaluation process, the state dental board will issue the doctor a license to perform general anesthesia. The license is renewable every two years if the doctor maintains the required amount of continuing education units related to anesthesia.
Again, when it comes to anesthesia, our first priority is the patient’s comfort and safety. If you have any concerns regarding the type of anesthesia that will be administered during your oral surgery procedure, please do not hesitate to discuss your concerns with your doctor at the time of your consultation.
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