Anesthesia in Lompoc, CA
Comfortable, Safe, and Customized Sedation Options
At Lompoc Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, we understand that dental procedures can cause anxiety for many patients. That’s why we offer a full range of anesthesia options to ensure your visit is as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Whether you’re scheduled for a routine extraction or complex jaw surgery, our sedation services are tailored to meet your medical needs, procedure complexity, and comfort level.
We offer several types of anesthesia to accommodate every situation, including:
- Local anesthesia to numb a specific area of the mouth for minor procedures.
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to ease anxiety while keeping you awake.
- Oral sedation, taken prior to your appointment, for moderate relaxation.
- IV sedation to induce a deeper state of relaxation during more involved treatments.
Our highly trained surgical team, led by Dr. Lanzon, ensures that all anesthesia methods are administered safely and effectively, monitored throughout the entire procedure.
When Is Anesthesia Needed?
Sedation or anesthesia may be recommended for a variety of reasons:
- You are undergoing a complex or lengthy procedure such as dental implant placement or bone grafting
- You experience significant dental anxiety or have difficulty remaining still during treatment
- You have a sensitive gag reflex or low pain tolerance
- You are undergoing multiple treatments in one visit
Whether you’re visiting us for wisdom teeth removal or oral pathology procedures, our team will help determine the most appropriate sedation method to ensure your comfort and safety.
"Couldn't ask for a better team of people. Dr. McAnnich and his team are wonderful and do an amazing job. Thanks a lot guys for the great work on my mouth. Totally recommend 100% for oral surgery, etc.. Much love!"
Are You a Candidate for Anesthesia?
Most healthy individuals are candidates for sedation dentistry. During your initial consultation, we will review your full medical history, current medications, and any allergies. We also take into consideration your level of dental anxiety and the type of treatment you’ll be receiving.
Before undergoing general or IV sedation, we recommend:
- Avoiding food or drink for a period prior to your appointment (we’ll provide specific instructions)
- Arranging for a trusted adult to drive you home following your procedure
For routine procedures requiring only local anesthesia or nitrous oxide, recovery is typically fast, and you can resume your normal activities shortly after your visit.
What to Expect with Dental Anesthesia
Your experience will vary depending on the type of anesthesia used:
- Local Anesthesia: Applied directly to the treatment area to block pain. You’ll remain fully awake and aware, with zero discomfort.
- Nitrous Oxide: Inhaled through a small mask. You’ll feel calm and relaxed, and the effects wear off quickly after the procedure.
- Oral Sedation: Taken in pill form before your appointment. It helps you stay relaxed but aware; many patients remember little of the procedure.
- IV Sedation: Delivered through a vein for a deeper level of sedation. Though not unconscious, patients often feel as though they’ve slept through the entire procedure.
All methods are carefully monitored in-office by our trained staff to ensure your safety from start to finish.
For complex treatments such as facial trauma surgery, deeper sedation methods like IV anesthesia are often preferred to make the experience as smooth as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is anesthesia safe?
Yes. At Lompoc Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, all forms of sedation are administered and monitored by professionals trained in anesthesia and emergency care. We use your medical history and vitals to determine the safest option.
Will I feel anything during the procedure?
With the appropriate level of sedation, you should feel no pain or anxiety. Local anesthesia blocks pain signals, while sedation reduces your awareness and response to discomfort.
How long does it take for sedation to wear off?
It depends on the type of anesthesia. Nitrous oxide wears off within minutes, while oral and IV sedation may take several hours to fully leave your system.
Can I drive myself home after sedation?
You can drive after nitrous oxide, but if you receive oral or IV sedation, you’ll need someone to escort you home. Plan accordingly before your appointment.
What if I have anxiety but don’t want to be fully sedated?
We offer milder forms of sedation, like nitrous oxide and oral sedatives, that reduce anxiety without putting you completely under. We’ll guide you through the best option.
