Sedation Options for Your Comfort and Safety
At Kikuchi Oral Surgery Center, Dr. Matthew Kikuchi understands that many patients feel anxious about oral surgery. Our priority is to provide a surgical experience that is not only highly effective but also comfortable and stress-free.
We offer multiple levels of sedation and anesthesia, and Dr. Kikuchi will work closely with you to create a customized plan based on your procedure, medical history, and comfort level. Your safety is always our highest priority.
Local Anesthesia
Local anesthesia is used to numb the specific area being treated. The most commonly used medication is administered through a small injection near the surgical site.
Local anesthesia is typically appropriate for straightforward procedures such as simple extractions or minor gum treatments. Even when additional sedation is selected, local anesthesia is still used to ensure complete comfort during your procedure.
In-Office IV Sedation and General Anesthesia
For patients who prefer deeper relaxation, Dr. Kikuchi offers IV sedation in our office. With IV sedation, patients enter a deeply relaxed state and may drift in and out of consciousness during the procedure. Many patients remember little to nothing about their treatment afterward.
Because the sedative effects can last several hours, patients receiving IV sedation must have a responsible adult accompany them to and from their appointment.
Dr. Kikuchi is licensed to administer general anesthesia in the comfort of our surgical facility. General anesthesia allows patients to be fully asleep during treatment and is commonly chosen for procedures ranging from wisdom tooth removal and implant surgery to more complex full-mouth surgical cases.
Pre- and Post-Sedation Guidelines
To ensure your safety, patients receiving sedation or general anesthesia are typically instructed not to eat or drink for eight hours prior to their procedure, unless otherwise directed. Essential medications may be taken with a small sip of water as instructed by Dr. Kikuchi.
Because sedation and general anesthesia can cause lingering drowsiness, you must arrange for a family member or friend to drive you home after your appointment. Following treatment, you should avoid driving, consuming alcohol, or operating machinery for the remainder of the day.