Anesthesia Side Effects

There are two types of anesthetics that we utilize here at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania – local and general. Local anesthesia provides a temporary loss of sensation including pain in one part of the body produced by a topically applied or injected agent without distressing the level of consciousness for the patient. General anesthesia, on the other hand, is controlled by the doctor and sedates the patient for an extended period of time. Anesthesia produces side-effects for some patients that we’d like to take the time to explain so that you can prepare for your next appointment.

Tooth extraction is one of the most common procedures that require anesthesia. Side effects of anesthesia may occur during a surgery or procedure, or afterward when you are recovering. Side effects may include nausea and vomiting, a sore throat, muscle aches, or even confusion as the anesthesia wears off. While these symptoms may cause discomfort or frustration, it’s important to know that they won’t last long. Every patient is different and depending on what kind of anesthesia is administered you may have no side effects at all. If you have a procedure scheduled that requires anesthesia, we encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you have before it begins.

If you have questions or concerns about tooth extractions or anesthesia please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141. 

Let Us Explain, Novocain

When you think of oral surgery, our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania are almost certain that you’re wondering about your sedation options. Depending on the procedure at hand, you will either be given a local or general anesthetic. Local anesthesia allows the patient to remain awake, while general anesthesia allows the patient to sleep. If you are told you’ll be receiving a local anesthetic, “Novocain” probably comes to mind. Novocain is commonly used to suppress pain in patients who remain conscious. During your consultation, our doctors will determine if Novocain is appropriate for your treatment plan as well as if it is the best option for you.

Novocain is normally injected into an area during oral surgery and other dental procedures to numb the surrounding tissues. Like any medication, however, side effects include numbness around the injection site that can last for several hours, a tingling sensation around the injection site, as well as minor swelling around or near the injection site. Novocain is a good option for some, but not for others. Be sure to provide us with as much information about your medical history as possible so that you and our doctors can make an informed decision.

If you would like to discuss sedation options, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141. 

Chewing Gum after Eating

If you are a gum chewer, the type of gum you chew can make the difference between helping and harming your oral health. While you might think that stick of mint gum is freshening your breath, it could also be contributing to cavity formation. In fact, chewing gum made from xylitol, which is a natural sweetener, right after you eat is one of the most effective to improve digestion.

 

As you get older, your body produces less and less stomach acid to help you digest properly. Chewing gum at the appropriate times, like after a meal, can actually help give your digestive system a boost and help you digest your meals more efficiently. Chewing gum with xylitol helps create saliva which ultimately helps your body build up the amount of acid that is in your stomach. This acid helps contribute to breaking down foods and improving overall digestion.

What are My Anesthesia Options for Oral Surgery

What are My Anesthesia Options for Oral Surgery

Here at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania, we want our oral surgery patients to understand everything about their surgery. This includes educating them on their anesthesia options. There are three main options for oral surgery and dental procedures: local anesthesia, nitrous oxide, and general anesthesia with intravenous sedation. In some cases, our doctors offer the patients a choice in what anesthesia they get, while in others, one type of anesthesia is recommended highly for the comfort of the patient.

 

1) Local anesthesia is used most often in our office, and simply numbs the area being treated. The patient is awake and fully alert, though they experience no pain. Local anesthesia is often used in conjunction with other types of anesthesia.

2) Nitrous oxid, is known as laughing gas, and the patient is relaxed and conscious. Nitrous oxide is typically used for non-complicated wisdom tooth extractions and sometimes for dental implants.

3) With general anesthesia administered through IV sedation, patients are asleep so that they do not experience the procedure being performed. It is often used for longer or more intensive oral surgeries, such as removing impacted teeth, as well as dental implant surgery.

 

These anesthesia options are offered to patients, whether they are getting a simple procedure and want IV sedation or getting their wisdom teeth extracted and general anesthesia makes them feel more at ease. If you are in the Philadelphia, PA area and in need of oral surgery, contact our office about your anesthesia options.