LOCAL ANESTHESIA: (Novocaine, Lidocaine, etc.) A shot is given to block pain in the area to be worked on.

– elimination of sensation, especially pain, in one part of the oral and facial region by the topical application or regional injection of a drug.

 

NITROUS OXIDE WITH LOCAL ANESTHESIA:  Nitrous Oxide (or Laughing Gas) helps to lessen uncomfortable sensations and offers some relaxation.

– Nitrous oxide, sometimes called “laughing gas,” is not intended to put you to sleep.  You will be able to hear and respond to any requests or directions Dr. Satterfield may have.  You will be asked to breathe normally through your nose, and within a few short minutes you should start to feel the effects of the nitrous oxide.  You may fell light-headed or a tingling in your arms and legs.  Some people say their arms and legs feel heavy.  Ultimately, you should feel calm and comfortable.  The effects of nitrous oxide wear off soon after the mask is removed.

 

MILD SEDATION:   A pill is taken for relaxation prior to giving local anesthesia.

– minimally depressed level of consciousness that retains the patient’s ability to independently and continuously maintain an airway and respond normally to tactile stimulation and verbal command.

 

MODERATE SEDATION:  Makes you less aware of the procedure by making you calmer, sleepy, and less able to remember the procedure.

– induced depression of consciousness during which patients respond purposefully to verbal commands, either alone or accompanied by light tactile stimulation.  Interventions are usually not required to maintain a patient airway, and spontaneous ventilation is usually adequate.

 

DEEP SEDATION (GENERAL ANESTHESIA):  You will be completely asleep for the procedure.

– loss of consciousness during which patients are not usually arousable, even by painful stimulation.  The ability to independently maintain ventilatory function is often impaired.