Types of Anesthesia
LOCAL ANESTHESIA:
(Novocaine, Lidocaine, etc.) A shot is given to block pain in the area to be worked on. The shot will produce a numb feeling in the area being operated on and a feeling of pressure during surgery. You will be awake and recall the surgery, but there should be no significant discomfort.
NITROUS OXIDE WITH LOCAL ANESTHESIA:
Nitrous Oxide (or Laughing Gas) You will be relaxed and somewhat less aware of your surroundings, but will recall most of the surgical event. Nitrous oxide is generally used in conjunction with local anesthesia.
ORAL PREMEDICATION WITH LOCAL ANESTHESIA:
A pill is taken prior to giving local anesthesia to produce relaxation before and during your operation.
INTRAVENOUS SEDATION WITH LOCAL ANESTHESIA:
Medications are given through a vein in your arm or hand, which will cause total relaxation. You will not actually be unconscious, there will be very little recall (if any) of the events surrounding surgery. Intravenous sedation makes you less aware of the procedure by making you calmer, sleepy and less able to remember the procedure.
INTRAVENOUS GENERAL ANESTHESIA WITH LOCAL ANESTHESIA:
You will be completely asleep for the procedure. Medications are given through a vein which will result in total loss of consciousness, complete lack of recall of the event and usually a longer recovery time. General anesthesia has an excellent safety record as an office procedure, but may, if desired, be provided in a hospital setting. (Your health insurance may not cover you unless there is a bona-fide medical reason for hospitalization.)