Can you imagine going to the dentist in your great grandfather’s day? All the dentist would give you to soften the pain was either a shot of whiskey or something to hold on to and squeeze. Fortunately for us today a trip to the dentist can be a painless experience due to anesthesia.  Anesthesia is a Greek word which actually means “without sensation.”  After visiting and having dental work done by your local Walnut Creek dentist, you’ll be able to say that it was without sensation due to the many anesthetic options offered by Walnut Creek Dental.

The most commonly administered local anesthesia used by dentists is a substance called lidocaine. It is the compound which produces that numb feeling in your mouth and face.  Although this is the most common form of painkiller used by dentists there are other options available to ease the pain.

In recent years many dental offices have began to offer nitrous oxide to patients.  This form of anesthesia requires no needles but is breathed through a mask and produces a very relaxed yet conscious sedative state.  This type of anesthesia is recommended for patients with high anxiety and fear about visiting the dentist.

There are other drugs which the dentist can use to sedate a patient and make the dental experience more pleasant.  General anesthesia or a state of total unconsciousness is employed in cases where the patient has extreme anxiety or other forms of anesthesia provide little or no effect.

Your dentist in Walnut Creek will discuss with you the anesthetic options available to you based on your needs.  He or she will then be able to suggest and provide the proper type of anesthesia to make your trip to the dentist as pleasant and painless as possible.  Set up an appointment today.