Oral Surgery Anesthesia

Costello Oral Surgery Associates offers several methods of anesthesia in Maywood, Wayne and Franklin Lakes, NJ. In consultation with the patient, the surgeon determines the sedation appropriate for their procedure and comfort level.

Refer to the tabs below for a description of each type of anesthesia.

Anesthesia Methods

Local anesthesia refers to a topical and/or injected anesthetic that will affect only the targeted area for a brief period of time to minimize or eliminate sensation or pain in that specific “localized” area during a dental procedure.

Local anesthetics are used for simple procedures, and are often also used in combination with other sedation techniques for oral surgery.

Nitrous oxide, sometimes referred to as “laughing gas,” is an effective and safe analgesic agent that is inhaled through a mask that fits over the nose to help patients relax but remain conscious. Mixed with oxygen, nitrous oxide allows patients to breathe normally through their nose, and feel the effects within minutes.

Patients may feel light-headed or a tingling in your arms and legs. Some patients comment that their legs and arms feel heavy. Ultimately, it should feel comfortable and calm. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off quickly after the small mask is removed. Patients should to their doctor about whether nitrous oxide would be a good option.

Nitrous oxide is helpful for simple to more involved oral surgery procedures such as wisdom teeth removal and dental implant placement.

IV sedation/general anesthesia delivers medications through an IV line that allow our patients to enter a sleep-like state during surgical procedures. Supplemental oxygen is supplied through a breathing mask and vital signs are continuously monitored by the doctor and highly trained surgical assistants.

Surgical patients or patients with high levels of anxiety or special needs may benefit from IV sedation/general anesthesia. Patients will be provided with information that can help them determine if it is the best choice for them.

Frequently Asked Questions About Anesthesia

Do they put you to sleep for oral surgery?

The answer to this question depends on the surgery being performed and your personal preferences. For complicated reconstructive procedures, general anesthesia is typically required. For simple procedures, you may wish to only have local anesthetic or a combination of anesthetic and mild sedation.

Is oral surgery painful?

We use local anesthetic to ensure that you feel no pain during your oral surgery procedure. As this wears off in the hours after your appointment, you may feel some tenderness at the site, depending on the procedure performed.

What does nitrous oxide sedation feel like?

Most people simply feel deeply relaxed with nitrous oxide sedation. It’s common to feel a sensation of heaviness or tingling in your arms and legs, and some patients may also feel lightheaded.

Are you awake during IV sedation?

IV sedation will put you in a semi-conscious state, which is why it’s also known as twilight anesthesia. Although you will technically be conscious and breathing on your own, you will feel as if you’ve slept through your procedure and likely have no memory of it afterwards.

How long does anesthesia last after oral surgery?

The answer to this question depends on the type of anesthesia being used. We can help you understand what to expect during your consultation.

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