If you are thinking about replacing a lost or damaged tooth with dental implant surgery, you may be wondering if anesthesia is necessary and if so, will it be used. For those with phobias of surgery, or even just dental appointments, the possibility of there being pain involved, can be a source of much anxiety.
Since the process of getting dental implants is an oral surgery procedure, you will be given some form of anesthesia to keep you comfortable during the procedure. Although you will be unable to feel the procedure at all regardless of what type of anesthetic is used, some dental offices offer different forms of anesthesia that can render you unconscious for the entire surgery. However, being completely unconscious is not normally necessary for dental implants and can bring on additional risks and expenses.
The type of anesthesia you will receive depends upon the number of implants you are having placed, the preference of your dentist or oral surgeon, and your own personal level of comfort.
Determining the Type of Anesthetic
If you are only having one or two implants placed, you will probably be comfortable with just local anesthetic. However, if you are lacking enough healthy jawbone tissue to support an implant, you may require a bone graft surgery. In this procedure, bone tissue is harvested from elsewhere in your body and added to your jaw to bond with it and support your implant. If this is the case, your oral surgeon may prefer to work with you under a general anesthetic with which you are unconscious.
Another option for sedation during a dental implant surgery is known as conscious sedation. This method helps you relax during your oral surgery and is often combined with the use of a local anesthetic. The sedative agent is usually delivered in pill form or using nitrous oxide gas. With conscious sedation, you remain aware of your surroundings and can respond to your doctor’s questions and instructions, but will be completely relaxed during the procedure. Conscious sedation is a great option for those who experience anxiety about dental procedures.
Though it might seem preferable to have your procedure under general anesthesia, it is normally unnecessary and comes with risks and a longer recovery time. Local anesthesia is safer and less apt to produce unpleasant side effects. Be sure to review your options for sedation and anesthesia with your oral surgeon so he or she can help you make the decision that is right for you.
Implants in Lilburn, GA
If you have damaged or missing teeth, dental implants can be an excellent option for replacing them and restoring the appearance and function of your smile. Meanwhile, you can be certain your dentist will do everything in his or her power to ensure you are as comfortable and safe as possible during the procedure.
If you are in or near Lilburn, GA and would like to discuss if implants are the solution to restore your smile, call the office of Dr. Harry W. McCool at (770) 450-4407 or schedule a consultation online today! We look forward to helping you smile your best!