When are the services of a dental anesthesiologist needed?

Indications depend on a number of factors including a patients general health, past experiences, age, and type of dental procedure or sugery planned.  Some common indications include:

• Outpatient surgical procedures
• Dentistry for patients with mental or physical disabilities
• Patients who cannot obtain adequate pain control for dental procedures when only local ansesthesia is used
• Dental procedures for patients with a complicating medical condition or lengthy medical history
• Patients with intolerable levels of anxiety
• Fearful or anxious children with dental needs

Where and how are these services provided?

Dental and surgical treatment is performed in an office environment that is fully equipped for safe anesthesia yet designed to meet the unique demands of dental treatment.  Some patients can also be treated within the office of their dentist.  Patients identified as carrying significantly higher levels of risk are referred to a more appropriate setting for their care.

Will insurance cover these services?

Coverage varies among insurance plans.  We will help you to identify coverage, however the primary responsibility for payment rests with the patient.  The office manager will be happy to discuss fees, payment terms and insurance coverage at the time of the pre-anesthesia consult.

For more information about office-based anesthesia and Dr. Mark Saxen, please download this brochure.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION for before the appointment:

- Nothing to eat or drink 6 hours prior to your appointment.

- Children 8 years of age and younger may have a small amount of clear liquids up to 2 hours prior to procedure. Consult with our office for details.

- Arrange to have a responsible adult to drive you to and from the office on the day of surgery.

- Wear loose, comfortable clothing with short sleeves the day of your procedure.

- Bring a change of clothing the day of your procedure.

- Remove contact lenses, make-up, jewelry and fingernail polish prior to your appointment.

- Notify the office of any rapid or unexpected changes in your health.

- Take prescription medications and/or preoperative medications with a small sip of water, as directed by our office.