Anesthesia and Sedation Dentistry in Washington, D.C.

Oral and maxillofacial surgery involves procedures that range from minor services, like tooth extractions, to dental implant placement and complex orthognathic (jaw) surgeries. Regardless of what your treatment needs might be, skilled oral surgeons Dr. Edward Delgado and Dr. Michael Kuzmik are dedicated to helping you get the quality treatment you require in comfort. Our surgeons are board certified in dental anesthesiology and offer a variety of options to help ensure a positive, relaxing treatment experience for all patients. Oral and maxillofacial procedures that are performed within one of our modern surgical centers may be combined with intravenous (IV) conscious sedation, oral sedation, nitrous oxide sedation, or local anesthesia. General anesthesia is typically reserved for more intricate and complex procedures that are provided in a hospital setting. Find out more about your anesthesia and sedation dentistry options by reserving a consultation at one of our Virginia oral surgery facilities.

Dr. Delgado and Dr. Kuzmik have completed an extensive hospital-based residency and general anesthesia training program and have decades of experience in helping patients feel at ease when receiving care. They provide the following types of anesthesia and sedation dentistry options for oral and maxillofacial procedures:

• Nitrous oxide sedation: An odorless, colorless gas is inhaled before and during treatment, producing a calming, euphoric effect.
• Oral-conscious sedation: A prescription medication (sedative) is taken by mouth one hour prior to your visit. This option can help you feel more relaxed and even drowsy during your procedure.
• Local anesthesia: A numbing agent is administered into the treatment area to minimize sensation in the teeth, gums, bone, and nerves. Local anesthesia is often provided in combination with nitrous oxide or oral sedation.
• IV sedation: A sedative medication is administered intravenously before and during the procedure to provide deeper relaxation. IV sedation produces a "twilight sleep" effect, allowing you to remain conscious but with little to no recollection of your visit.
• General anesthesia: A combination of sedative medications are administered through a breathing mask or intravenously to place you in an unconscious, sleep-like state.

Most patients who have oral surgery needs are typically candidates for receiving some form of dental anesthesia or sedation dentistry. These services are customized for each individual and the type of procedure being performed. We understand that many of our patients experience dental anxiety and fear and work closely with each person to select the most appropriate form of anesthesia or sedation. Our overarching goal is to provide the advanced oral and maxillofacial surgical care you need in the most comfortable manner possible. During your treatment consultation with Dr. Delgado or Dr. Kuzmik, they will review your options and help you determine if local anesthesia, nitrous oxide gas, oral-conscious sedation, IV sedation, or general anesthesia is ideal for your needs.

The process of receiving dental anesthesia or sedation dentistry will differ based on the type of service you receive. Before administering any form of sedation, Dr. Delgado or Dr. Kuzmik will thoroughly review your medical history, talk with you about any previous anesthetic experiences, and explain what to expect throughout the procedure. A variety of medications may be used for anesthesia and sedation dentistry services. Sedation medications vary in intensity and effects and will be chosen and customized based on your degree of anxiety, the invasiveness of the treatment you require, and other factors. Our oral surgeons and surgical staff are expertly trained in anesthesia techniques and will continually monitor your vital signs and your response to the medication throughout the entire procedure.

It is important that you have a friend or family member accompany you to your appointment and drive you home after receiving oral-conscious sedation, IV sedation, or general anesthesia. You will likely feel groggy and lethargic throughout the day, but these effects should subside after about 24 hours. Dr. Delgado and Dr. Kuzmik strongly encourage you to follow any post-treatment instructions provided by our team, which may include to drink plenty of fluids, avoid strenuous activities, and avoid operating heavy machinery for a certain period of time.

Dental anesthesia and sedation dentistry services may be covered in part under some insurance plans. Before the day of your visit, our insurance coordinator will review your individual policy and let you know of any potential out-of-pocket costs. To help make treatment more convenient and affordable for patients, our oral and maxillofacial surgery practices accept several flexible payment options, including CareCredit® financing plans.

Getting oral surgery when you need it is important to your health, function, and general well-being. Dr. Delgado and Dr. Kuzmik aim to make meeting your oral surgery needs as easy and comfortable as possible, whether you require wisdom tooth extractions, dental implant surgery, or more intricate forms of care. To learn more about receiving nitrous oxide gas, oral or IV sedation, local anesthetics, or general anesthesia, please contact one of our established oral and maxillofacial surgery centers in Virginia.