General Anesthesia / Hospital Dentistry
Children with severe anxiety and/or inability to cooperate are candidates for general anesthesia. These children may be young or have compromised health or special needs. They usually require extensive dental treatment and their anxiety cannot be controlled with conscious sedation techniques.
What is General Anesthesia?
General anesthesia is a management technique that uses medications to cause the child to become unconscious and asleep while receiving dental care. It is the technique that is used to put people to sleep in hospital operating rooms during surgeries. The general anesthesia is administered by a physician or nurse anesthetist who has special training in anesthesia.
One major benefit to this technique is that extensive dental work can be performed in one session in a very controlled environment. Since the child is unconscious and asleep, the treatment is not as traumatic, and most of the time, the child does not remember having the work done.
Is General Anesthesia Safe?
Although there is some risk associated with general anesthesia, it is relatively safe when administered by an appropriately trained individual in an appropriately equipped facility. Many precautions are taken to provide safety for the child during general anesthesia care. Patients are monitored closely during the general anesthesia procedure by personnel who are trained to manage complications. Your pediatric dentist will discuss the benefits and risks involved in general anesthesia and why it is recommended for your child.
In order to maximize the safety of general anesthesia, parents must accurately report the child's medical history to the dentist and medical doctors. Parents must also follow all instructions given before the anesthesia appointment. This can prevent life-threatening and tragic complications during treatment.
Special Considerations Associated with General Anesthesia:
A physical examination is required prior to general anesthesia for dental care. This physical examination provides information to ensure the safety of the general anesthesia procedure. Your pediatric dentist and/or your general anesthesia provider will advise you about evaluation appointments that are required.
Parents are instructed to report to the pediatric dentist any illness that occurs prior to the general anesthesia appointment (hospital appointment). It may be necessary to reschedule the appointment. It is very important to follow instructions regarding preoperative fasting from fluids and foods. Your child should not have anything to eat or drink after midnight, unless the hospital tells you otherwise.
Usually patients are tired following general anesthesia. Your child will be discharged when alert and ready to depart. You will be instructed to let the child rest at home with minimal activity planned until the next day. Post-operative dietary recommendations will also be given.
Hospital Dentistry/General Anesthesia Instructions
