Anesthesia

Dentistry has advanced to the point in which pain is almost a thing of the past.

Powerful pain-killing medications known as anesthetics not only help a patient avoid discomfort during a procedure, but post-operatively as well.

Some patients, especially children, may require higher doses of anesthetic than others.

Types of pain-killing medications include:

  • Analgesics - These are also called pain relievers and include common non-narcotic medications such as ibuprofen and aspirin. Analgesics are usually used for mild cases of discomfort, and are typically prescribed following such procedures as a root canal or tooth extraction.
  • Anesthetics - Anesthetics can either be topically applied, injected or swallowed. Dentists often apply topical anesthetics with a cotton swab to an area of the mouth where a procedure such as a restoration will be performed. This numbs the affected area. Topical anesthetics are used in many dental procedures such as tooth restoration. Topical anesthetics also are used to prepare an area for injection of an anesthetic. Novocaine and Lidocaine are the most common kind of injectable anesthetics. Such medications block the nerves from transmitting signals and are used for more major types of procedures, such as fillings and root canals.
  • Sedatives - Sedatives are medications designed to help a patient relax. This can be a powerful tool in avoiding pain. Sedatives are sometimes used in combination with other types of pain relievers and pain-killers. Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is a form of sedative. Conscious sedation involves administering a sedative while the patient is alert and awake. Deep sedation or general anesthesia involves administering a medication that places a patient in a state of monitored and controlled unconsciousness.

Types of sedatives include:

  • Intravenous (IV) sedation - Usually in the form of a tranquilizing agent; patients given IV sedation are often awake, but very relaxed.
  • Inhalation sedation - a form of sedation in which nitrous oxide is administered through a special mask.

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Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Primary Location

Monday:

8:30 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:30 am-6:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-1:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say About Us

    Elk Dental Center provides a great experience in dental care. Extremely caring staff and doctors. Most refreshingly, they don’t over-diagnose treatments like other dentists - several times they’ve told me “You have a very early stage cavity that could need a filling in the future, but for now let’s watch it until your next exam.” Well worth the drive to get there from Plymouth!

    - David K.

    Always friendly! They make sure you are comfortable too - if you’re afraid of going to the dentist, go to Elk Dental Center, they’re a great team. Receptionists are always helpful and courteous. The dentist does a thorough job and which ever one you see, all are very knowledgeable and have time for any questions. I’ve been a patient there for quite a few years - it can’t be too bad...I go every 6 months!

    - Amanda O.

    I've been going to Elk Dental Center for 35 years. I had to go somewhere else for awhile because of insurance and couldn't wait to get back. All staff is professional, friendly, and truly caring. The dental work itself is high quality. They never "over prescribe" any work, and the cash discount is greatly appreciated. They also made extra effort to get me in on short notice when I've had problems.

    - JoAnn G.

    Always so polite and pleasant to there customers. Very satisfied, I have been going to dentist off and on for thirty-five years. Moved out of state, then when moved back went back to Elk Dental Center. We drive two hours both way to get dental services at Elk Dental Center.

    - Rita S.