Anesthesia
Several methods of anesthesia are available. The method of anesthesia depends upon the nature of the surgical procedure and the patient’s level of apprehension. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons are the only dental specialty to obtain extensive, focused anesthesia training during residency in addition to clinical training. As a board certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Dr. Tucker has significant inpatient and outpatient based medical and anesthesia training for managing pediatrics and adults. The knowledge and hands-on experience were learned during their residency, used in daily practice, and kept up-to-date with continuing education and office-based medical emergency and mock code simulations.
Anesthesia Options
Local Anesthetic: Simple oral surgery procedures such as minor soft tissue procedures and simple tooth extractions.
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The patient remains totally conscious throughout the procedure. Local anesthetic (e.g. lidocaine) is administered in the area where the surgery is to be performed. Local anesthetic is used in conjunction with the other methods of anesthesia in all oral surgery procedures.​
Nitrous Oxide
with Local Anesthetic: Patients with very mild anxiety that are undergoing simple oral surgery procedures.
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​A mixture of nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oxygen is administered through a nasal breathing apparatus. The patient remains conscious in a relaxed condition. Nitrous oxide has a sedative and analgesic (pain- controlling) effect. The relaxing effects of nitrous oxide vary significantly from one-person to the next. ​​
Office Based
IV Anesthesia with
Local Anesthetic*: IV anesthesia is available for all types of oral surgery. Patients with a compromised medical status, may have IV antibiotics and/or very light
sedation for anxiety reduction while healthy patients may choose general
anesthesia for simple procedures depending on their level of anxiety.
Most people having their wisdom teeth removed or extensive dental
implant procedures will choose general anesthesia. General anesthesia
may be necessary if local anesthesia fails to anesthetize the surgical site
which often occurs in the presence of infection.
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​Medications are administered through an intravenous line (I.V.). The level of sedation depends on the type and quantity of medication given. This spectrum varies from awake and relaxed to completely asleep and requiring assistance to breathe. Medications most commonly used are Ketamine, Propofol, and Versed (benzodiazepine). Supplemental oxygen is delivered through a nasal breathing apparatus and the patient’s vital signs are closely monitored.
Hospital or
Surgery Center
Based
General Anesthesia: Indicated for patients undergoing extensive procedures such full mouth rehabilitation. Also indicated for patients with medical conditions such as heart disease or lung disease who require general anesthesia.
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A patient is admitted to a hospital or surgery center where anesthesia is administered by an anesthesiologist.