customPhotoIV SEDATION / GENERAL ANESTHESIA

Most procedures may be performed using IV sedation or general anesthesia. Anesthesia allows patients to be relaxed, sedated, or asleep during their surgery reducing or eliminating anxiety and discomfort.

Recovery from anesthesia is rapid and most patients are able to leave the office within a short time after their procedures.

Dr. Hardy is the  chairman of the Anesthesia Committee of the Vermont Society or Oral Surgeons. As part of his duties as chairman he regularly trains / evaluates both staff and Doctors in the provision of anesthesia and emergency protocols.

With IV sedation and general anesthesia it is important to not to eat or drink for 8 hours prior to your appointment.

Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas)

Nitrous Oxide is a sweet-smelling, non-irritating, colorless gas that you can breathe.

Nitrous Oxide has been the primary means of sedation in dentistry for many years. Nitrous oxide is safe, the patient receives 50-7O% nitrous oxide with no less than 30% oxygen..

The patient is able to breathe on their own and remain in control of all bodily functions.

The patient may experience mild amnesia and may fall asleep, not remembering all of what happened during their appointment.

There are many advantages to using Nitrous Oxide

  • The depth of sedation can be altered at any time to increase or decrease sedation.
  • There is no after effect such as a “hangover”.
  • Inhalation sedation is safe with no side effects on your heart and lungs, etc.
  • Inhalation sedation is very effective in minimizing gagging.
  • It works rapidly as it reaches the brain within 20 seconds. In as little as 2-3 minutes its relaxation and pain killing properties develop.

Reasons to not use Nitrous Oxide

You should not utilize Nitrous Oxide if you have been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Though there are no other major contraindications to using nitrous oxide, you may not want to use it if you have emphysema, exotic chest problems, M.S., a cold or other difficulties with breathing.

You may want to ask your dentist for a “5 minute trial” to see how you feel with this type of sedation method before proceeding.