Oral Surgery fredericksburg & ashland va

We want to ensure your total comfort while undergoing surgery in our office, which is why our surgeon offers several options for sedation. Here are some of the types of sedation you can expect to be offered:

1. Nitrous Oxide: Most people know this by its other name “laughing gas.” The gas is administered through a mask that is worn over the nose. It takes about 3-5 minutes to take effect, and once the procedure is over, oxygen is used to flush the gas out of the system. Nitrous oxide doesn’t take away pain, but it can calm your nerves and be used in conjunction with local anesthesia.
2. Oral Conscious Sedation: This option entails the administration of oral sedatives, usually in the Valium family. You will be drowsy but still able to respond to any questions or prompts that the dentist may have. The medication is taken an hour before the procedure, and the surgeon will also use local anesthesia to keep your mouth numb throughout the surgery.
3. Intravenous Sedation: This type of sedation is best for longer surgeries or for patients who prefer to be completely under during the procedure. Medication is administered through an IV, which will render you unconscious during the entire procedure.

You will need someone to drive you home after the procedure if you opt for oral conscious or intravenous sedation because it will take time for the medication to wear off.