Anesthesia / Sedation Services – Savannah, GA

Patient Comfort

Our goal is to provide periodontal and implant care with the highest degree of patient comfort. Many potential patients put off needed dental care due to anxiety, sensitivity, or fear of pain. In our office we hope to reduce possible anxiety about periodontal and implant treatment by providing you with the information that you need to understand what will happen.

Dr. Alvord, Dr. Rawlings and Dr. Young received hospital-based anesthesia training and are licensed to provide the following services to maximize your comfort:

Intraoral Anesthesia

Topical anesthesia is often used for cleaning procedures by our hygienists. It is also the first agent used prior to injection of a local anesthetic to help make injection as comfortable as possible.

Inhalation Sedation

Nitrous Oxide, sometimes referred to as “laughing gas”, can be used to help you relax and produce a light sedation or disassociation from the procedure. Many of our patients choose this option to assist with their regular periodontal maintenance procedures. The effects are fully reversible, which allows you to drive shortly after the procedure.

Oral Conscious Sedation

Oral medication is sometimes prescribed prior to treatment to reduce anxiety and allay fears. The medication is usually taken at least one hour prior to treatment and is used in conjunction with intraoral local anesthetic. After taking oral medication for conscious sedation, someone will need to drive you to and from your appointment.

I.V. Conscious Sedation

Intravenous medication is recommended for patients undergoing implant or periodontal surgical procedures to reduce fear and anxiety associated with even short procedures. During I.V. conscious sedation incremental doses of sedative medication are given until you feel drowsy and sleepy. During the procedure you are able to breathe on your own, clear your throat if necessary, and respond when spoken to. Vital signs are monitored to ensure your safety during the procedure. Most people do not remember anything about the procedure after being sedated. After I.V. conscious sedation, someone will need to drive you home from your appointment.