Anesthesia

Brandon Cannon, DDS -  - Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon

Cannon Oral Surgery

Brandon Cannon, DDS

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon located in Chattanooga, TN

At Cannon Oral Surgery, comfort and safety are high priorities. Oral and maxillofacial surgeon Brandon Cannon, DDS, helps you select the right form of anesthesia during your initial consultation at Cannon Oral Surgery in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Anesthesia allows you to undergo necessary procedures without feeling intense pain. To explore anesthesia options for your next surgery, call Cannon Oral Surgery or book an appointment online today.

Anesthesia Q&A

What is anesthesia?

Anesthesia is a group of medications that provide a numbing or sedative effect. They allow you to undergo necessary oral and maxillofacial surgery. 

Anesthesia and sedation help many prospective patients get the care they need despite their anxiety around visiting the dentist.

Some forms of anesthesia allow you to remain conscious throughout the entirety of your procedure, though you might not remember much of your time in the dental chair once they wear off. 

During your first consultation at Cannon Oral Surgery, Dr. Cannon goes over your medical history. He helps you select a type of anesthesia that’s safe for you to use and will effectively keep you comfortable during your procedure or surgery.

Which types of anesthesia are available?

There are a few factors to consider while exploring your options for anesthesia. Dr. Cannon considers your health, the medications you take regularly, the specific surgery or procedure you’re getting, and your apprehension level to make the right choice. Your options include:

Local anesthesia

Local anesthesias are drugs that Dr. Cannon injects or applies directly to the treatment area. They provide a numbing effect in the targeted region only and typically last for a short period of time.

Sedation

Sedatives are drugs that help you relax as you undergo surgery. They come in many forms, including oral medications and intravenous drips. 

Deep sedation allows you to be minimally conscious and far less responsive to stimuli like pain throughout your procedure. 

General anesthesia

General anesthesia is a form of anesthesia that renders you unconscious for the entirety of your surgery. It also relaxes you and prevents you from feeling pain. 

How should I prepare for a procedure with anesthesia?

Dr. Cannon gives you instructions to prepare for your procedure to avoid harmful side effects and complications from anesthesia. Your guidance may vary slightly depending on the type of anesthesia you receive, but they might include:

  • Fasting for eight hours before your appointment
  • Avoiding smoking for at least 12 hours before your surgery
  • Arranging a ride to the office and back home after
  • Adjusting certain medications or dosages
  • Notifying the office if you get sick before your appointment

Dr. Cannon also gives you instructions to follow after your surgery, including how long the recovery will take and how long before the effects of the anesthesia wear off. He monitors you for a short time before sending you home. 

Schedule your anesthesia consultation by phone or book online at Cannon Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery today.