Question 1

What is a board-certified physician anesthesiologist?

Accepted Answer

A board-certified physician anesthesiologist is a medical doctor who after college completed four years of medical school and an additional four years of residency training in anesthesiology. Some physician anesthesiologists also complete an additional year or more of fellowship training in subspecialties of anesthesiology (e.g. cardiothoracic anesthesia, critical care medicine, pain management). All of our physician anesthesiologists are board certified by The American Board of Anesthesiology. Board certification is awarded to physicians who have completed approved medical school and residency training, successfully passed rigorous written and oral board examinations, and are continuing to participate in ongoing medical education to stay at the forefront of their field.

Question 2

What is my physician anesthesiologist's role?

Accepted Answer

Your physician anesthesiologist's role is to evaluate your overall health before your procedure, customize an anesthetic plan that will ensure your comfort and safety during your procedure, administer the planned anesthesia care, facilitate completion of the indicated procedure, monitor your vital signs continuously throughout your procedure, and assist in your recovery from anesthesia immediately following your procedure.

Question 3

What does my physician anesthesiologist do while I'm sleeping?

Accepted Answer

Your physician anesthesiologist stays right with you throughout your procedure to ensure the appropriate level of sedation, continuously monitor your vital signs (e.g. heart rate and rhythm, blood pressure, oxygen levels, respiratory rate), support your breathing and vitals as needed, and fine-tune the anesthetic to ensure your comfort during and immediately after your procedure.

Question 4

Can I speak with my physician anesthesiologist before my procedure?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we are here for you! Your physician anesthesiologist will visit with you in person at the office on the day of your procedure. Your physician anesthesiologist may reach out to you in the days or weeks leading up to your procedure if there are questions about your overall health. You may also request a call from your anesthesiologist should you have questions.

Question 5

What are the benefits of physician-delivered mobile anesthesia care?

Accepted Answer

With mobile anesthesia care provided by a physician anesthesiologist, you can rest easy knowing you are receiving the highest level of care. Mobile anesthesia allows your dentist or surgeon to perform the care you need right in the office, which is typically the most comfortable setting for both you and your dentist or surgeon. Receiving care in the office allows you to avoid facility fees charged by hospitals and surgery centers.

Question 6

Is anesthesia safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes. When administered by a trained anesthesia professional, anesthesia is very safe. While there are risks associated with any dental and medical care, modern anesthesia techniques and monitoring have dramatically reduced those risks.

Question 7

Is there anything I can do to reduce the risk of having problems with anesthesia?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Make sure to share as accurately as possible any medical conditions, medical devices (e.g. pacemaker, insulin pump), or allergies you have; medications you are or should be taking; any alcohol, tobacco (including vaping), or recreational drug use (including marijuana); and any problems you may have had with anesthesia in the past. It is also very important to follow all instructions from your physician anesthesiologist, including when to stop eating and drinking before your procedure and what medication to take or not take. Other things you can do to decrease risks associated with anesthesia and surgery include increasing exercise and activity in the weeks leading up to your procedure, stopping smoking and vaping 4-6 weeks before your procedure if possible, and stopping marijuana use at least one day before your procedure.

Question 8

How long will the effects of anesthesia last?

Accepted Answer

Each individual responds somewhat differently to anesthesia medications, though typically within a couple of hours, many people are feeling quite awake. In general, the longer the procedure duration, the more time needed for recovery. As people get older, the effects of anesthesia can last longer. Your overall rested state leading up to your procedure can also affect recovery time, with a poorly rested state resulting in a longer duration to recovery.

Question 9

Should a responsible adult stay with me after my procedure?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a responsible adult must drive you home and stay with you until you have fully recovered from the anesthesia, which is typically until the following day.

Question 10

When can I get back to my regular routine?

Accepted Answer

It is important to avoid making major decisions, driving, or engaging in other activities that require physical or mental dexterity for the remainder of the day after receiving anesthesia. By the next day, most people are ready to resume their normal routine.