Local Anesthesia
For relatively minor procedures, such as treating cavities, a local “shot” of anesthesia is often all that’s needed. (No, it’s not Novocain, which became obsolete over thirty years ago.) Even the injection site is numbed by a topical anesthetic before the shot is given. It’s also the most economical anesthetic.

Nitrous Oxide
In case of anxiety or extra sensitivity, the patient can request nitrous oxide. It’s easily administered using a breathing mask that covers the nose, and can be used with local anesthesia. Most patients who use nitrous oxide report feeling more relaxed during treatment. The effects wear off almost immediately after treatment.

Oral Sedation
For some treatments, our dentists may recommend oral sedation as the best anesthetic option. The patient takes an oral anesthetic, waits for it to take effect (usually an hour or less), then completes treatment in the Parkcrest office. Simple to use, this method is relatively inexpensive. However, its effects may not last long enough to complete more complex treatments.

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