Are you worried about your dental procedure? Don’t be! Different types of anesthesia will make it painless — learn all about them below!

Going for a dental procedure can cause a lot of anxiety, and it’s normal to wonder how painful it will be. But thanks to the types of dental anesthesia used today, you shouldn’t feel any pain at all!

Dental anesthesia has been used safely for many decades. Its purpose is to make you feel comfortable and relaxed during the procedure. When it’s over, you likely won’t remember feeling any pain. That’s due to the different types of anesthesia used in a dentist’s office to reduce discomfort and make the experience as pleasant as possible. Let’s learn more about them.

Types of dental anesthesia used today

Depending upon your age, health status, and dental work, your dentist will choose the appropriate anesthesia. The most commonly administered dental anesthesia types fall into three categories:

Local anesthesia. For minor or shorter dental procedures, such as a tooth filling, your dentist will inject local anesthesia into the gums around the affected tooth. Nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas,” may be used along with local anesthesia. You’ll remain conscious during the procedure but won’t feel any pain. Local anesthesia works best on the upper jaw (maxillary teeth) rather than the lower jaw (mandibular section of the mouth). After the procedure, your lips, cheeks, and gums will numb for a few hours.

IV sedation. During IV sedation, the anesthesia is administered gradually through an intravenous catheter that will cause you to feel sleepy. Depending upon the medication, you may or may not be conscious during the procedure. Afterward, you’ll have no memory of the procedure. This type of anesthesia can help patients with severe anxiety about the dental procedure or those undergoing oral surgery. 

General anesthesia. General anesthesia is the best option for longer dental procedures. It’s administered through an IV or a face mask, and you’ll be unconscious during the treatment.

What you need to know about dental anesthesia

Although extremely rare, dental anesthesia may come with several temporary side effects. Of all the types, general anesthesia is the most likely to cause after-effects such as nausea, headache, dizziness, slurred speech, or confusion. 

Although generally safe, dental anesthesia may be a bit riskier for some people based on their health. If any of these conditions apply to you, talk to your dentist before the procedure.

Pregnancy. If you’re pregnant, your dentist will discuss whether anesthesia presents a risk to you and your baby. You may decide the benefits outweigh the risks.

Allergies. Tell your dentist about any allergies you may have to dyes or other substances. Also, inform your dentist if you’ve had a bad reaction to anesthesia in the past. A rash, swelling of the tongue, lips, mouth, or throat, difficulty breathing, and itching are signs of an allergic reaction to the anesthesia.

Your medications. Be sure to tell your dentist about any prescription or over-the-counter medications or supplements you’re taking that could interfere with the effectiveness of the anesthesia or result in an adverse reaction. In particular, aspirin and blood thinners could increase the risk of bleeding during the procedure.

Your health status. Suppose you suffer from chronic conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or sleep apnea. In that case, you could stand a greater risk of adverse effects from the anesthesia. In addition, children with special needs and older adults may experience adverse effects from the anesthesia and must be carefully monitored.

With dental anesthesia, your procedure will be virtually painless. But as with any medical operation, discuss with your dentist any possible side effects and risks from the anesthesia to ensure a successful outcome.

Get ready for your dental procedure

Schedule an appointment at Espire’s Mission Valley, California, location today! Our highly trained dentists will help you choose the right anesthesia to make your procedure as comfortable as possible. Don’t live near our Mission Valley office? Find one of our other locations near you.

Mission Valley, CA
8989 Rio San Diego Drive
Suite 170
San Diego, CA 92108