Gum surgery is a safe and effective way to improve oral health and address a variety of cosmetic concerns. However, many who could benefit from treatment do not visit the dentist out of fear that the procedure is painful. If this is your concern, it is helpful to understand the different types of anesthesia options that are available during gum surgery.
The most common options for anesthesia during gum surgery are local anesthesia, IV sedation, and general anesthesia. Each is unique in its own way. The best way to determine which is right for you is to discuss available options with your dentist.
Local anesthesia is common for more invasive dental procedures in which the patient is able to return home on the same day as the procedure, such as gum surgery. Many dentists also use local anesthesia for cavity fillings, tooth extraction, and other fairly common dental procedures.
Therefore, most dental patients experience local anesthesia at some point, unless they specifically elect not to have it. The patient is awake the entire time, although they may feel different and the area that is operated on (the gums) is numb. The patient typically does not feel much, if anything, during gum surgery while under local anesthesia.
Intravenous or IV sedation is not used as often during gum surgery as local anesthesia, but some patients may request it. It involves the placement of an IV catheter and administering the sedative through the IV. The benefit of IV sedation is that the patient may feel less discomfort during the procedure. The drawback, however, is that they are far less aware of what is going on. Some patients report remembering certain details of the experience, whereas others report not having any memory of their experience while under IV sedation. It is safe and effective when administered correctly. The effects do not last as long as general anesthesia.
General anesthesia is often the preferred method for patients who are concerned about experiencing discomfort during gum surgery. When the term “put to sleep” is used in surgery, it typically means general anesthesia. The patient is essentially completely unconscious with general anesthesia. Dentists may recommend it if the gum surgery is more extensive and will take longer.
No anesthesia is rare for gum surgery. It is not recommended as gum surgery most often involves incisions that are painful. However, it may be an option for patients who are adamant about not using sedation, and if the procedure is considered to be very minor and does not take long.
If you would like to learn more about the anesthesia options that are available to you during gum surgery, contact our dental team today. We understand the anxiety and stress that often exists in patients before gum surgery, and we are here to make their life easier and ensure the process is as painless and convenient as possible.
Request an appointment here: https://aventura.luvicdental.com or call Luvic Advanced Dentistry Aventura at (305) 677-0553 for an appointment in our Aventura office.
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