The short answer: sometimes, but not always. Anesthesia choices for oral surgery range from a small dose of local numbing to full general anesthesia, and the right option depends on the procedure, your medical history, and your comfort level.
The Anesthesia Options
Local anesthesia numbs only the area being treated. You're awake, you feel pressure but no pain, and you can drive yourself home afterward. This is standard for simple extractions, biopsies, and most routine procedures.
Nitrous oxide, often called "laughing gas," takes the edge off if you're anxious. You stay awake and responsive, but you feel relaxed and time tends to pass more quickly. The effect wears off within minutes of the mask coming off.
Oral sedation is a pill taken before the appointment. You'll feel drowsy and may not remember much of the procedure, but you're still conscious and breathing on your own. You'll need someone to drive you home.
IV sedation delivers sedative medication directly into your bloodstream. Most patients describe it as feeling like they slept through the whole thing, even though they were technically responsive the entire time. It's often called "twilight sedation."
General anesthesia puts you fully unconscious, with a breathing tube and continuous monitoring. It's reserved for more involved cases, such as complex jaw surgery, full-mouth reconstruction, or patients who can't tolerate any awareness of the procedure.
Which One Is Right for You
Dr. Eberle's training in both oral surgery and plastic surgery means he's experienced with the full range of anesthesia options, including IV and general. During your consultation, he'll walk you through what's appropriate for your procedure, your anxiety level, and any medical conditions that might steer the decision.
Call (954) 507-4540 to schedule a consultation at Weston Center for Plastic Surgery.
