Dentistry has advanced to the point in which pain is almost a thing of the past.
Powerful pain-killing medications known as anesthetics not only help a patient avoid
discomfort during a procedure, but post-operatively as well.
Some patients, especially children, may require higher doses of anesthetic than
others.
Types of pain-killing medications include:
- Analgesics - These are also called pain relievers and include common
non-narcotic medications such as ibuprofen and aspirin. Analgesics are usually used
for mild cases of discomfort, and are typically prescribed following such procedures
as a root canal or tooth extraction.
- Anesthetics - Anesthetics can either be topically applied, injected
or swallowed. Dentists often apply topical anesthetics with a cotton swab to an
area of the mouth where a procedure such as a restoration will be performed. This
numbs the affected area. Topical anesthetics are used in many dental procedures
such as tooth restoration. Topical anesthetics also are used to prepare an area
for injection of an anesthetic. Novocaine and Lidocaine are the most common kind
of injectable anesthetics. Such medications block the nerves from transmitting signals
and are used for more major types of procedures, such as fillings and root canals.
- Sedatives - Sedatives are medications designed to help a patient
relax. This can be a powerful tool in avoiding pain. Sedatives are sometimes used
in combination with other types of pain relievers and pain-killers. Nitrous oxide,
or laughing gas, is a form of sedative. Conscious sedation involves administering
a sedative while the patient is alert and awake. Deep sedation or general anesthesia
involves administering a medication that places a patient in a state of monitored
and controlled unconsciousness.
Types of sedatives include:
- Intravenous (IV) sedation - Usually in the form of a tranquilizing agent); patients
given IV sedation are often awake, but very relaxed.
- Inhalation sedation - a form of sedation in which a medication (such as nitrous
oxide) is administered through a special mask.
For more information about Anesthesia or to answer any questions or concerns, please see our dentist in Tarzana today or
call us at (818) 708-3828.