The options
Implant surgery can be done under local anesthesia (numbing), sedation or general anesthesia.1 AAOMS states that oral and maxillofacial surgeons are trained to provide local anesthesia and all forms of sedation, including general anesthesia.1
Training
| Provider | Anesthesia training |
|---|---|
| Oral and maxillofacial surgeon | At least four years of hospital-based surgical residency after dental school, including a medical anesthesiology rotation1 |
| Dental anesthesiologist | Recognized dental specialty focused on managing pain, anxiety and overall health during dental and surgical procedures2 |
During that rotation, residents evaluate patients for anesthesia, deliver the anesthetic and monitor patients afterward.1 AAOMS states that its surgeons are trained in airway management, intubation, starting and maintaining IV lines, and managing anesthesia emergencies.1
Florida permits
In Florida, the Board of Dentistry issues separate permits for anesthesia above local numbing.3
| Permit | Covers |
|---|---|
| General anesthesia | General anesthesia and deep sedation, at a specified location |
| Moderate sedation | Moderate sedation for outpatients |
| Pediatric moderate sedation | Moderate sedation for children |
To hold a general anesthesia permit, a Florida dentist must complete a two-year CODA-accredited residency in dental anesthesiology or an oral and maxillofacial surgery residency.3 Florida also requires current basic life support certification for staff involved.3
Before the appointment
AAOMS states that the pre-operative consultation covers the type of anesthetic to be used and how the patient is likely to feel.1 AAOMS describes sharing a full medical history with the surgeon as important.1
Questions to ask
- Which level of anesthesia is planned: local, oral sedation, IV sedation or general anesthesia.
- Who gives the anesthesia and what permit or training they hold.
- Whether someone needs to drive the patient home.
General information about dental implants. Treatment decisions are made with a licensed dentist.
Sources
- AAOMS (MyOMS.org): Anesthesia for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. myoms.org
- National Commission on Recognition of Dental Specialties and Certifying Boards: Recognized Dental Specialties. ncrdscb.ada.org
- Florida Administrative Code 64B5-14.003: Anesthesia Permits (Board of Dentistry). law.cornell.edu
