Anesthesia
The surgeons at Southwest Oral & Implant Surgery Surgery strive to achieve patient comfort and maintain their safety.
Several methods of anesthesia are available:
- Local anesthesia
- Local anesthesia + Nitrous Gas
- Local anesthesia + IV sedation (Twilight sleep)
- Local anesthesia + General Anesthesia (Deep Sleep)
The method of anesthesia that is chosen by a patient depends upon the nature of the surgical procedure and the patient’s level of apprehension.
To administer general anesthesia in the office, an oral surgeon must have completed up to 4 years minimum of hospital based anesthesia training under medical anesthesiologists.
Qualified applicants will then undergo an in office evaluation by a state dental board appointed examiner. The examiner observes an actual surgical procedure during which general anesthesia is administered to the patient. The examiner also inspects all monitoring devices and emergency equipment and tests the doctor and the surgical staff on anesthesia related emergencies. If the examiner reports successful completion of the evaluation process, the state dental board will issue the doctor a license to perform general anesthesia. The license is renewable every two years if the doctor maintains the required amount of continuing education units related to anesthesia.
Again, when it comes to anesthesia, our first priority is the patient’s comfort and safety. If you have any concerns regarding the type of anesthesia that will be administered during your oral surgery procedure, please do not hesitate to discuss your concerns with your doctor at the time of your consultation.
Why choose Drs. Hullett when undergoing anesthesia for your procedure?
Both Drs. Hullett are trained and certified to administer general anesthesia AND they both work together on every sedated patient. Your loved one will be constantly observed before, during and after anesthesia for maximum safety.
We strictly follow all standards and guidelines of the American Society of Anesthesiologists.
Intravenous Sedation (“Twilight Sedation”) & General Anesthesia
Our office offers our patients the option of intravenous sedation or to some it is referred to as “twilight sedation” for their surgical treatment. Intravenous sedation or “twilight sleep” helps you to be comfortable and calm when undergoing the procedure. You may not always be asleep but you will be comfortable, calm and relaxed, drifting in and out of sleep – a “twilight sleep”.
General Anesthesia is a deeper IV sedation where you are sleeping but still have control over your breathing and protective reflexes. We do this routinely in our office with our patient’s waking up saying…”that’s it?, it felt like 2 minutes”. This type of sedation is our most common.
If you choose the option of sedation, it is administered and monitored by the doctor therefore eliminating the costly expense of having your treatment carried out in an operating room or same day surgical facility.
If there are any health concerns, we recommend performing our treatment in the operating room with a team of anesthesiologists.
For more information about Anesthesia or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Hullett or Dr. Hullett, call our office in Houston, TX at Houston Office Phone Number 713-439-7575.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide is a sweet smelling, non irritating, colorless gas which you can breathe. Nitrous oxide has been the primary means of sedation in dentistry for many years. Nitrous oxide is safe; the patient receives 50-70% oxygen with no less than 30% nitrous oxide. Patients are able to breathe on their own and remain in control of all bodily functions. The patient may experience mild amnesia and may fall asleep not remembering all of what happened during their appointment.
There are many advantages to using nitrous oxide:
- The depth of sedation can be altered at any time to increase or decrease sedation.
- There is no after effect such as a “hangover”.
- Inhalation sedation is safe with no side effects on your heart and lungs, etc.
- Inhalation sedation is very effective in minimizing gagging.
- It works rapidly as it reaches the brain within 20 seconds. In as few as 2-3 minutes its relaxation and pain killing properties develop.
Reasons to not use Nitrous Oxide
Though there are no major contraindications to using nitrous oxide, you may not want to use it if you have eye chamber problems, middle ear problems, emphysema, exotic chest problems, M.S., a cold or other difficulties with breathing. You may want to ask your dentist for a “5 minute trial” to see how you feel with this type of sedation method before proceeding.
Southwest Oral & Implant Surgery
Patient Testimonial
Very satisfied. 2 children had wisdom teeth out with Dr. Hullett and it was a very no fuss, no nonsense procedure which we loved. Will definitely come back with the 3rd. Staff was all very friendly and helpful as well.
- Wendy M
Patient Testimonial
I was referred by my dentist for removal of a wisdom tooth. I was in significant pain and they were able to schedule me quickly. The office staff and assistant were kind and efficient. I had a heightened level of anxiety, primarily due to anesthesia. I did not get the warm fuzzies from the Drs. Hullett. They were not rude but they are not hand holders, at least in my experience. What I did get, though, was expedient, safe, and expert care. If you’re nervous, muster your courage before your procedure and trust that they will deliver the care you need. They will. I would definitely return and would definitely recommend.
- Angela C
Patient Testimonial
Great experience, made the procedure as painless as possible.
- Kim L
Patient Testimonial
Dr. Jason Hullett, D.M.D IS AMAZING!! I am the BIGGEST BABY , and I was so nervous as I have had MANY BAD experiences with dental work in the past. I can Truely tell you that I worried all for nothing!! This was truly the BEST experience I have ever had. I can't THANK them enough They got me in and out and took care of business! This office is AWSOME I HIGHLY RECOMMEND !!!! THANK YOU
- Theresa N
Patient Testimonial
Great practice!
- a m
Patient Testimonial
Staff was courteous, very friendly and fast. Surgery with Doctor Hullett was quick and painless.
- Jeff H
Patient Testimonial
everyone was very nice and awesome! felt very comfortable undergoing my wisdom teeth surgery and they were with me every step of the way. would absolutely recommend
- Wyatt H
Patient Testimonial
I have my wisdom teeth extraction. Dr. Jason Hullett and Dr. Anu Hullett did an outstanding job. The procedure went smoothly. I highly recommend Dr. Hullett.
- Josephine L
Patient Testimonial
I went to get 2 wisdom teeth extracted, and was so nervous, first time ever. I've heard of so many horror stories of people getting their wisdom teeth pulled. I tell you what, it was total opposite of horror. Both Dr. Anu and Jason Hullett did a tremendous job. They're both very kind, respectful, caring, and excellent at what they do. I had little to no pain after surgery, most definitely no swelling at all! Family and friends were amazed at the recovery time, and zero complications. I highly recommend Dr. Anu and Jason Hullet. Thank you Dr's!
- Ricardo G
Patient Testimonial
My son needed to have three wisdom teeth removed. The surgery ended up being shorter in duration and less expensive than we had been quoted. No negative side effects, no heavy pain meds needed and he was back to normal within a week. Would highly recommend this team.
- Sally M
Patient Testimonial
Dr. Jason Hullett and his team did an outstanding job with our son's wisdom teeth extraction. Procedure was pain free and recovery was quick. Thank you Dr. Hullett for this excellent treatment.
- Anonymous
Patient Testimonial
I came to Dr. Hullett after a tooth extraction by regular dentist could not be completed due to a stubborn root piece. It was important to get the last part out soon, and the office promptly accommodated, finding room on the same day for a visit and the needed surgery. The first thing I want in a dental office is that they get it right, and I was impressed from the front desk, to the aide who took me through all preparation, and finally Dr. Jason who completed the job. I also want compassion, and to feel secure while I'm getting the needed anesthesia, which I was. After 6 decades and more than a few dental mis-adventures, I feel this office was one of the best I've ever visited.
- David K
Patient Testimonial
This was my first oral surgery to remove 7 teeth. Everyone made me feel at ease and next thing I knew, I was finished and sitting up in the chair. The doctors and staff are just wonderful, really caring and friendly and will take excellent take care of you.
- Natasha L
Patient Testimonial
Everyone was so great when I came in to get my wisdom teeth taken out. I scheduled my appointment very late about a week before I left for school, but they were so great and were able to squeeze me in and find a time that worked for me early in the morning. I definitely would recommend them!!
- Maggie B
Patient Testimonial
My 11 year old son had to have a tooth extraction which required general anesthesia. He was anxious and worried and is very inquisitive. Dr's Hullet were beyond compassionate, warm and open to answer all his questions from the initial consultation to the procedure day. The staff is so polite and friendly as well. The key differencing factor that really sets these two Dr's apart is their dedication to their patients. Dr. Anu Hullett asked me to come by since they were still in the same office the day of his procedure so she can check him out, both Dr's checked him out and again answered all this 11 years old question with patience and reassured him and I that everything is fine. They go above and beyond and are truly available to you. I am beyond pleased with the service received and the Dr's attentive and passion beyond what they do. I highly recommend Dr's Hullet due to these qualities which are hard to come by these days. Thank you Dr's Hullet and staff!
- Sejal U
Patient Testimonial
I was very nervous about getting my wisdom teeth removed, but thanks to Drs. Hullett, it could not have been a more easy and comfortable process. I felt that I was in safe hands on the day of my procedure and was thrilled that my recovery was so quick and seamless. A big thanks to both Dr. Jason Hullett and Dr. Anu Hullett for being very thorough and kind in my interactions with them!
- Lindsey Y
Patient Testimonial
Dr. Hullett and his entire staff are absolutely wonderful. My daughter had oral surgery today performed by Dr. Hullett and his wife, and they made her feel so at ease. Everyone at his office and the surgical center were very pleasant and went above and beyond the level of customer service that is seldom seen these days. I give this group my highest of recommendations.
- Karen T
Patient Testimonial
I was so scared of tooth extraction but Dr. Hullett made it simple and painless with, and healing was super fast.
- Dozie N
Patient Testimonial
Dr Hullett and his staff did everything possible to make me feel comfortable before, during and after my surgery. I had no problems and healed up on schedule. I would highly recommend Dr Hullett for any extraction. CM
- Chuck M
Patient Testimonial
I would recommend Southwest oral & implant surgery to anyone who needs to get their wisdom teeth taken out. They make their practice feel like a home which is something that stuck out to me. I am glad that I choose Southwest oral and implant surgery and I can't thank the staff enough.
- Jaylon A