Nervous about feeling pain during a dental procedure? That’s where anesthesia comes in. Whether you’re getting a simple filling or a more involved procedure like oral surgery, dental anesthesia helps make your experience more comfortable—and often pain-free.
At Espire Dental, your comfort is just as important to us as your oral health. We’ll help you understand your options so you know exactly what to expect before, during, and after your visit. Here’s what you need to know about the different types of dental anesthesia and how they work.
Local Anesthesia: Numbs a Small Area
Local anesthesia is the most commonly used type of dental anesthesia. It’s typically used for routine procedures like fillings, crowns, and root canals.
How it works:
Your dentist injects a numbing medication (like lidocaine) into the area near the tooth being treated. Within minutes, the area becomes numb so you don’t feel pain—but you’ll remain fully awake and aware.
What to expect:
You may feel some pressure during the procedure, but not pain. The numbness can last for a few hours after your appointment, so avoid chewing on that side until it wears off.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): Helps You Relax
Nitrous oxide is often used in addition to local anesthesia for patients who feel anxious about dental work.
How it works:
You’ll breathe in a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen through a small nose mask. It works quickly to help you feel calm, relaxed, and sometimes even a little giddy—hence the nickname "laughing gas."
What to expect:
You’ll stay awake during the procedure and be able to respond to your dental team. Once the gas is turned off, it wears off quickly, so you can usually resume normal activities right after your appointment.
Oral Sedation: Reduces Anxiety
For those with dental anxiety or undergoing longer procedures, oral sedation may be a good option.
How it works:
Your dentist will prescribe a sedative medication (like Halcion or Valium) to take before your appointment. This helps you feel more at ease during treatment.
What to expect:
You’ll stay conscious, but feel deeply relaxed—some people even fall asleep. Because the effects linger, you’ll need someone to drive you home afterward.
IV Sedation: A Deeper Level of Relaxation
IV (intravenous) sedation is often used for more complex procedures like wisdom teeth removal or dental implants.
How it works:
A sedative is administered through a vein in your arm, which allows your dentist to control the level of sedation during the procedure.
What to expect:
You’ll remain conscious but may not remember much of the procedure. You’ll be monitored throughout, and you’ll need a ride home afterward.
General Anesthesia: You’ll Be Fully Asleep
General anesthesia is the deepest level of sedation and is typically reserved for oral surgeries or cases where other methods aren’t sufficient.
How it works:
You’ll receive medication that puts you completely to sleep—either through an IV or a mask. This is performed in a hospital or surgical setting by an anesthesiologist.
What to expect:
You won’t be aware of anything during the procedure and will need time to recover afterward, including a ride home and supervision for the rest of the day.
How to Know Which Type Is Right for You
The best anesthesia option depends on the procedure, your medical history, and your comfort level. During your consultation, your Espire Dental provider will review your options and help you decide on the safest and most effective choice for your needs.
Comfort and Care, Every Step of the Way
We know that dental visits can feel intimidating—but anesthesia is one way we make your experience more comfortable and stress-free. Whether you need a little help relaxing or a deeper level of sedation, our team is here to make sure you feel supported and cared for from start to finish.
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