Sedation and General Anesthesia
Gentle, Worry‑Free Dentistry with Safe Sedation and General Anesthesia Options
Sedation & General Anesthesia
At Advanced Dental, our dentists ensure a pain-free experience through sedation & general anesthesia, which consists of various anesthetic options.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide is administered through a custom nosepiece to produce a calming effect, reducing fear and anxiety, enabling patients to better tolerate injections or other potentially uncomfortable procedures. The effects wear off almost instantly once the procedure is done.
Local Anaesthesia
Local anaesthetic is administered via an injectable to impart a numbing effect that lasts for up to 60 minutes. It is injected into the part of the mouth that requires treatment. Patients won't experience any sedation or altered consciousness from local anaesthesia.
IV Sedation
For longer or more complicated procedures, IV (intravenous) sedation is used to induce a state of deeper relaxation. It is carried out by a certified anaesthetist who will monitor the patient throughout the duration of the procedure.
General Anaesthesia
General anaesthesia is administered via an IV drip and it affects the entire body and produces a state of unconsciousness. This is used for lengthy, extensive oral surgeries that might cause more pain than local anaesthesia can address.
Frequently asked questions
How does tooth sensitivity differ from a toothache?
Tooth sensitivity is a temporary, sharp, or brief discomfort when exposed to certain triggers, such as cold or hot foods/drinks, sweets, or air. A toothache, on the other hand, is often a persistent or throbbing pain caused by an underlying dental problem, such as decay or infection.
Is dental anaesthesia safe?
Dental anaesthesia is safe. Dentists carefully evaluate patients' medical histories to choose the most appropriate type and dosage.
What can I do to prevent tooth sensitivity?
Maintaining good oral hygiene, using a fluoride toothpaste, avoiding excessive consumption of acidic or sugary foods and drinks, and visiting the dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings can help prevent tooth pain and sensitivity.
How can I manage tooth sensitivity at home?
Home remedies for tooth sensitivity include using desensitizing toothpaste, avoiding acidic foods and drinks, practicing good oral hygiene, and using a soft-bristled toothbrush
Is it normal to experience sensitivity after a dental procedure?
It is common to experience some sensitivity after dental procedures like fillings, crowns, or root canal therapy. However, if the sensitivity persists or worsens over time, it's important to consult your dentist.
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Can I choose sedation or general anaesthesia for the surgery?
Most patients have the surgery performed under local anaesthesia, which is sufficient to block the pain. However, we also offer sedation and general anaesthesia services for anxious patients or when their conditions are more complex. For sedation, we offer oral, nitrous oxide or happy gas, and intravenous sedation. All surgeries are performed in any of our dental clinics in Singapore. For general anaesthesia, the patients are fully asleep, and it is performed in a day surgery operating theatre with an anaesthetist providing the general anaesthesia. We will discuss the type of anaesthesia most appropriate for your condition during your consultation.
Does local anaesthesia hurt?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the local anaesthesia injection. The needles used are very fine, and the procedure is usually quick. Your dentist may also offer numbing options to ensure your comfort.
What causes tooth sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity can be caused by various factors, including exposed tooth roots, tooth decay, worn enamel, gum recession, cracked teeth, or dental procedures that irritate the tooth nerves.
Is tooth sensitivity a sign of a serious dental problem?
Tooth sensitivity can be an indication of an underlying dental issue, such as tooth decay or gum disease. It's important to consult a dentist to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.
Can tooth sensitivity be treated?
Yes, tooth sensitivity can often be treated. The appropriate treatment will depend on the underlying cause. Treatment options may include desensitizing toothpaste, fluoride treatments, dental bonding, gum grafting, or other dental procedures recommended by your dentist.
What is dental anaesthesia, and why is it used?
Dental anaesthesia is the administration of medications to induce a loss of sensation or consciousness during dental procedures. It is used to ensure a pain-free and comfortable experience for the patient.
How is local anaesthesia administered in dentistry?
Local anaesthesia is typically injected near the treatment site via a small needle. Topical anaesthetics may be applied beforehand to numb the area where the injection will be given.
What are the different types of dental anaesthesia?
Common types include local anaesthesia (numbing a specific area), general anaesthesia (inducing temporary unconsciousness), and sedation (relaxing and calming the patient).
Why do certain foods trigger my tooth sensitivity?
When dentine is exposed, the nerves beneath are more easily triggered by external stimuli, such as changes in temperature or acidity. Hence, foods that affect these conditions will cause a shock in your teeth.
Will I need to be sedated during a tooth extraction?
The level of sedation depends on various factors, including the complexity of the extraction, your anxiety level, and the recommendation of your dentist. Local anaesthesia is typically used to numb the area, but you may also receive additional sedation options such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or intravenous sedation.
Can I choose general anaesthesia/sedation for the tooth extraction?
These methods will require anaesthetist, which we do not have in our dental group. Local anaesthesia provides sufficient numbing for dental extractions and surgeries. If you still have concerns, please let our dentists know during consultation and they will be able to provide you with professional advice.
