Anesthesia and sedation
For every procedure the area is numbed with local anesthetic. Some patients also choose sedation, which relaxes you. You decide with Dr. Applewhite at your consult.
Sedation is a medical choice with its own risks, so we go through them and what to arrange beforehand in writing, not in the chair.
What to expect
Local anesthetic for every procedure
Sedation is a choice, never a default
Written instructions beforehand
Before, during and after
The same steps for every sedation visit.
- 01
Step 1: The conversation
We go through your health, your medicines and your choices at the consult.
- 02
Step 2: The day before
Written instructions on eating, drinking and your medicines.
- 03
Step 3: The visit
Dr. Applewhite gives the sedation. Arely watches your breathing, pulse and oxygen throughout.
- 04
Step 4: Going home
Your driver takes you home and stays with you for the rest of the day.
Before you decide
What we tell every patient, in the same four parts.
Comfort
You can say you want to stop at any point. We use the lightest level that fits the procedure and what you chose.
Without sedation
Without sedation, the procedure is done with local anesthetic alone. That is a fine choice for many people, and we say so.
Risks and after-care
Sedation can cause nausea, drowsiness, and in rare cases breathing or heart problems. We check your health first, monitor you throughout, and keep emergency equipment in the room.
How it is billed
Anesthesia is a separate line in your estimate. Some plans cover it and some don't, so Thomas checks before your visit.
How fees work
Questions about anesthesia and sedation
Who gives the sedation?
Dr. Applewhite does. The sedation permit the Louisiana State Board of Dentistry requires for the level she gives is listed in her credentials once the practice adds it.
How are you watched?
A trained assistant monitors your breathing, heart rate and oxygen from start to finish, and emergency equipment is in the room.
Who has to come with me?
A responsible adult who drives you home and stays with you for the rest of the day.
Can I eat or drink first?
Not before sedation. Your written instructions say how long to wait, and you get them the day before.
Provided by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon
Dr. Dionne Applewhite, DDS, licensed in Louisiana. Practice limited to oral and maxillofacial surgery.