Final answer:
Local anesthetics are used to reversibly block sensory nerve impulses from reaching the CNS, causing loss of sensation in a specific area, while general anesthetics induce a loss of consciousness and are used in surgeries.
Step-by-step explanation:
The procedure that involves using anesthesia to block sensory nerve impulses from reaching the central nervous system (CNS) is known as the administration of local anesthetics. Local anesthetics prevent the initiation and transmission of sensory impulses, which results in a reversible loss of sensation in a specific area of the body, without loss of consciousness. In contrast, general anesthetics induce a reversible loss of consciousness and are used during surgical procedures requiring complete sedation and muscle relaxation, including the tongue muscles.