Anesthesia Options

Connecticut Valley Oral Surgery Associates serving Greenfield, Amherst, Northampton, Brattleboro, & Keene

Local anesthesia

Local anesthesia, also called Novocaine, has been used safely for several years. It is what you are accustomed to when you have a procedure completed at the dental office. It involves an injection in the gums and the area will feel numb.

During the procedure you will feel vibration and pressure but no pain. If a tooth has an infection, complete anesthesia might not be achieved and your doctor may recommend a course of antibiotics before extraction or general anesthesia.

Oral sedation and nitrous oxide:

Nitrous oxide is also called “laughing gas.” It is actually the first anesthetic used in the medical field and was discovered by a dentist more than 100 years ago. A combination of oral sedation and laughing gas helps achieve a more relaxed patient. However, you will still be aware of your surroundings.

A period of fasting before the procedure is necessary and someone to drive you is required.

Deep sedation and general anesthesia:

These two forms of intravenous anesthesia are also referred to as “twilight sleep” or “going to sleep.” You will be given medication slowly through the IV and will gradually become unaware of your surroundings.

This is the most comfortable way to have a procedure. You will need to fast for at least 8 hours and be accompanied by a responsible adult driver. The driver will need to stay in the office for the duration of the procedure. Please also review our page with more information on preparing for your procedure with Anesthesia.