Many patients feel anxious about undergoing dental procedures, especially when anesthesia is involved.
At The Dental Anesthesia Center, we understand these concerns and want to help you feel more comfortable by explaining what you can expect when receiving anesthesia. Let’s explore the different types of anesthesia and what they feel like.
Dr. Behl!
I cannot recommend Dr. Maris Behl enough. If you have dental anxiety, she is truly the kind of dentist you hope to find. If teeth could be wrapped in pillows and protected by flying unicorns, Dr. Behl would somehow make it happen.
I have significant anxiety around dental procedures and have needed deeper sedation for dental work in the past. From the beginning, Dr. Behl took the time to listen to my concerns and made me feel genuinely heard rather than dismissed or rushed. She created such a sense of trust and safety that I was eventually able to have my dental work done with only nitrous instead of full sedation, which is something I honestly didn’t think I would be comfortable doing.
During my crown placement, she explained what she was doing throughout the procedure, which made an enormous difference in keeping me calm. She also took the time to address a filling that had been bothering me for what felt like forever — and she actually fixed the problem.
What stands out most about Dr. Behl is how safe I feel in her care. She is compassionate, patient, communicative, and incredibly attentive to how her patients are feeling. For someone with dental anxiety, that combination is invaluable.
Finding a dentist I trust this much has completely changed my experience with dental care. I am incredibly grateful to Dr. Behl and would recommend her without hesitation, especially to anyone who has dental anxiety or has struggled to feel comfortable receiving dental treatment.
Response from the owner:Thank you for such incredibly kind words! We’ll be sure to pass this along to Dr. Behl. We’re pretty sure the flying unicorns are going to be the part she remembers most! 🦄💙 We’re so glad our team could help make your experience a more comfortable one.
Dr Thoms and his team are phenomenal. No question, the absolute best possible option for my child when he needed work done while sleeping (age based). While this option is not inexpensive, this set up of have anesthesiology in-house allowed us to get his mouth healthy when a traditional pediatric dentist could/would not. I am a parent that asks a lot of questions on behalf of my toddler’s care and at no point did I feel judged for this, nor was I rushed during my evaluation process during the consultation. Although the procedure is not one I would like to repeat for my child, my husband and I were both so pleased with how well Dr. Thoms communicated and how he clearly cared for our son’s wellbeing (both physical and emotional during a less than comfortable visit). Cannot recommend the back of house team more highly.
My one detraction is the FOH staff (not everyone) were not nearly as pleasant. I would like to communicate that while their day-to-day is very routine for them, being in that office as a parent is very scary for some people in their office and a little bit of kindness goes along way. I do recall, having a very pleasant conversation with Rebecca, but otherwise everyone else was on the apathetic side, in my personal opinion. That said you’ll notice that I still am leaving a five star review because the dental staff really just knocked out of the park, but as a parent I want to encourage you to look past any rudeness you may experience over email or on the phone because Dr. Thom’s is really that excellent.
Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to share such thoughtful feedback. We’re grateful to hear that our team provided compassionate, attentive care and took the time to answer your questions throughout the process. We also appreciate your comments regarding your experience with our front office team and will certainly share your feedback. Your kind words mean so much to us!
Very nice very convenient for me great people working
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad you had a positive experience with our team. We truly appreciate your 5-star review!
Types of Dental Anesthesia
There are three main types of anesthesia used in dentistry:
Each type of anesthesia provides a different level of sedation and has a unique effect on how you feel during and after the procedure.
Local Anesthesia
What it is: Local anesthesia is the most common type used in dentistry. It’s injected directly into the treated area to numb the specific site.
What it feels like:
Initial pinch or sting from the injection (usually very brief)
Gradual numbness in the treated area
Feeling of fullness or swelling (though actual swelling may not occur)
Inability to feel pain in the numbed area
You remain fully conscious and aware
After effects: The numbness typically lasts a few hours after the procedure. As the feeling returns to the area, you may experience a tingling sensation.
Conscious Sedation
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
What it is: A mild sedative inhaled through a mask over your nose.
What it feels like:
Relaxation and calmness spreading through your body
Mild euphoria or giddiness (hence the name “laughing gas”)
Slight tingling or heaviness in your limbs
Time may seem to pass more quickly
You remain conscious but may feel sleepy
After effects: The effects wear off quickly once the gas is stopped. After a short recovery period, you should be able to drive yourself home.
Oral Sedatives
What it is: Medication taken by mouth before the procedure to help you relax.
What it feels like:
Deep relaxation
Drowsiness
Reduced anxiety
You may fall asleep but can be easily awakened
You might not remember much of the procedure afterward
After effects: Drowsiness can last for several hours. You’ll need someone to drive you home.
General Anesthesia
What it is: Medications that put you into controlled unconsciousness.
What it feels like:
You won’t feel anything during the procedure, as you’ll be completely unconscious
The last thing you’ll likely remember is counting backward or being told to think of a pleasant place
The next thing you’ll be aware of is waking up in the recovery room
After effects:
Grogginess and disorientation upon waking
Possible nausea or dizziness
You may feel cold and shiver
Confusion or difficulty remembering things immediately after waking
It’s important to note that everyone’s experience with anesthesia can be slightly different. Factors such as age, overall health, and the specific medications used can all influence how anesthesia affects you.
Preparing for Anesthesia
To help ensure a positive experience with anesthesia:
Discuss any concerns or questions with your dentist beforehand
Inform your dentist of all medications you’re taking and any medical conditions
Follow all pre-procedure instructions, especially regarding eating and drinking
Arrange for someone to drive you home if you’re receiving anything stronger than local anesthesia
At The Dental Anesthesia Center, we prioritize your comfort and safety. Our experienced team will guide you through the entire process, ensuring you understand what to expect and addressing any concerns. Remember, millions of dental procedures involving anesthesia are performed safely every year. With the proper preparation and care, your experience can be comfortable and stress-free.
Contact Us Today
Following these dietary guidelines can ensure a smoother recovery after your tooth extraction. We’re committed to your comfort and quick healing at The Dental Anesthesia Center. If you have any questions about your post-extraction care, don’t hesitate to contact our team.
