Local anesthesia - The injection of medication into the tissues of the mouth to numb or anesthetize the area where treatment is to be rendered.

Intravenous anesthesia or sedation - The injection of medications into a vein of the arm to establish a "twilight" effect. In some cases, a state of "ultra light" general anesthesia may be accomplished. Under this sedation, the patient will experience no pain or anxiety and will be disassociated from the surgery yet is responsive and technically conscious.

General anesthesia - This form of anesthesia is administered intravenously and accomplishes a state of unconsciousness. It is reserved for healthy patients in the office setting. Patients with certain medical conditions may require hospitalization for this type of anesthesia. Local anesthesia may be used in conjunction with IV sedation or general anesthesia to minimize anesthetic doses and allow the patient to wake up free of pain.

Monitoring - All patients receiving any type of sedation or general anesthesia are monitored with the latest forms of electronic devices intra-operatively. Blood pressure, EKG (heart), respiration, and blood oxygen levels are constantly monitored for patient safety. The doctor and two trained surgical assistants are in the surgical suite the entire time the surgery is in progress. After the procedure is complete and the patient has initial recovery from the anesthetic he or she is moved to a recovery room for observation and further recovery. A family member is allowed to sit with the patient until he or she is fully alert and ready for discharge. Post-operative/post anesthetic instructions will be given prior to discharge.