Anesthesia
Anesthesia for Oral & Facial Surgery
Patient guide for comfort, safety, and a smooth recovery
At Premier Oral & Facial Surgery office, your comfort and safety come first. Many procedures can be done with little to no sedation, while others are best done with deeper anesthesia so you can stay relaxed and pain-free. This page explains the common anesthesia options, what to expect, and how to prepare.
What “anesthesia” means
Anesthesia refers to medications used to prevent pain and reduce anxiety during a procedure. Depending on your needs and the procedure, anesthesia may range from numbing only, to light sedation, to full sleep anesthesia.
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Your anesthesia options
1) Local Anesthesia (“numbing medicine”)
What it is: Medication (like “Novocaine”) placed near the treatment area to numb it.
How you feel: Awake; you may feel pressure, but you should not feel sharp pain.
Best for: Many extractions, biopsies, minor soft-tissue procedures, and some implants.
Common effects: Lip/cheek/tongue numbness for a few hours after treatment.
2) Nitrous Oxide (“laughing gas”)
What it is: A calming gas you breathe through a small nose mask.
How you feel: Relaxed and less anxious; you remain awake and able to respond.
Best for: Mild-to-moderate dental anxiety, shorter procedures.
Good to know: Wears off quickly. Many patients can return to normal activities the same day (your surgeon will advise you).
3) Oral Sedation (“a pill to relax you”)
What it is: A prescribed sedative taken before your visit.
How you feel: Drowsy and calm; you’re awake but may remember little.
Best for: Moderate anxiety, longer appointments, patients who prefer not to have IV sedation.
Important: You must have a responsible adult drive you and stay with you after the procedure.
4) IV Sedation (“twilight sleep”)
What it is: Medication given through a small IV, monitored continuously by our trained team.
How you feel: Very relaxed and sleepy; many patients remember little or nothing.
Best for: Wisdom teeth removal, multiple extractions, implants with grafting, and patients with significant anxiety.
Important: You will need a responsible adult escort, and you should plan to rest for the remainder of the day.
5) General Anesthesia (fully asleep)
What it is: Deeper anesthesia where you are fully asleep.
How you feel: You will not be aware of the procedure.
Best for: Select complex surgeries, extensive procedures, or specific medical/behavioral needs.
Where it’s done: Depending on the case, it may be done in an office setting or in an accredited surgical facility/hospital setting.
How we choose what’s right for you
We recommend an option based on:
The type and length of your procedure
Your medical history and current medications
Your comfort level/anxiety
Prior experiences with anesthesia
Your age and overall health
Your safety is the priority: We review your health history, take vital signs, and monitor you closely before, during, and after treatment.
What to expect on the day of surgery
1. Before your procedure
We’ll confirm your medical history, medications, and allergies
We’ll review your anesthesia plan and answer questions
If you’re having sedation/anesthesia, we’ll check your vital signs and begin monitoring
2. During your procedure
You’ll be monitored for breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen level
Our team will focus on comfort, safety, and a smooth experience
3. After your procedure (recovery)
You’ll rest until you’re alert and stable
We’ll review your post-op instructions and medications
If you had sedation, you may feel sleepy for several hours
Fasting rules (NPO) for sedation/anesthesia
NPO = Latin phrase nil per os, which translates to nothing through the mouth.
If you are scheduled for IV sedation or general anesthesia, you will usually be instructed to:
Have nothing to eat or drink for a specific period before surgery (often 6–8 hours)
This includes:
- ❌ Food
- ❌ Water
- ❌ Smoking
- ❌ Coffee or tea
- ❌ Juice
- ❌ Gum or mints
- ❌ Candy
(Some medications may be allowed with a small sip of water—only if your surgeon specifically tells you to do so.)
Because fasting instructions can vary based on age and medical conditions, follow the exact directions we give you.
What to bring and how to plan
If you are having oral sedation, IV sedation, or general anesthesia:
Arrange a responsible adult escort (they must drive you and stay with you)
Wear loose, comfortable clothing
Avoid makeup and nail polish if instructed (sometimes it affects monitoring)
Bring a list of medications (or the bottles)
Plan for rest the remainder of the day
Safety and common side effects
Most patients do very well with anesthesia. Side effects depend on the type used and your personal response.
Common (usually temporary):
- Drowsiness or fatigue
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Mild sore throat (more common with deeper anesthesia)
Bruising at IV site (if IV sedation)
Call us right away (302) 273-8300
if you have:
- Trouble breathing, wheezing, or swelling
- Persistent vomiting
- Chest pain or fainting
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Fever or worsening symptoms
If symptoms feel severe or urgent, call 911.
Will I feel pain during my procedure?
It depends on the type of anesthesia:
Local anesthesia: Awake and numb
No. Anesthesia is used to prevent pain. With local anesthesia, you may feel pressure but not sharp pain. With sedation or general anesthesia, you’ll be very relaxed or fully asleep.
Will I be awake or asleep?
It depends on the type of anesthesia:
Local anesthesia: Awake and numb
Nitrous oxide: Awake and relaxed
Oral or IV sedation: Very relaxed and sleepy
General anesthesia: Fully asleep
Will I remember the procedure?
Many patients remember little or nothing with IV sedation or general anesthesia. With local anesthesia, you’re usually aware of the procedure.
Is anesthesia safe?
Yes, for most patients. Your medical history is carefully reviewed, and your vital signs are continuously monitored throughout the procedure to ensure safety.
Can I eat or drink before my appointment?
If you’re having IV sedation or general anesthesia, you’ll usually be asked not to eat or drink for 6–8 hours before surgery. Follow the specific instructions given by our office.
Do I need someone to drive me home?
Yes—if you receive oral sedation, IV sedation, or general anesthesia, a responsible adult must drive you home and stay with you afterward. Some patients with only local anesthesia or nitrous oxide may drive themselves, depending on the situation.
How long will the anesthesia last?
Numbness from local anesthesia can last several hours. Sedation effects may cause drowsiness for the rest of the day. Most patients feel back to normal by the next day.
What side effects are common?
Temporary side effects may include drowsiness, nausea, dizziness, dry mouth, or mild bruising at the IV site. These usually resolve within a short time.
What if I have dental anxiety or fear?
You’re not alone. Sedation options are specifically designed to help anxious patients feel calm and comfortable. Tell us about your concerns—we’ll help choose the best option for you.
Is anesthesia safe if I have medical conditions?
Conditions such as sleep apnea, heart disease, or diabetes don’t automatically prevent anesthesia, but they do require special planning. Be sure to tell us about all medical conditions and medications.
Should I stop taking my regular medications?
Do not stop any medications unless instructed. We’ll let you know if any changes are needed before surgery.
When can I return to normal activities?
Most patients should rest the day of surgery. Normal activities can often resume the next day, depending on the procedure and type of anesthesia used.
Who can I call if I have concerns after surgery?
Contact our office (302) 273-8300 right away if you have questions or unexpected symptoms. If you experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing or chest pain, call 911 immediately.