General Anesthesia: Services for Children and Adolescents

What is general anesthesia for dental services?

General anesthesia is a beneficial procedure that helps make children feel more comfortable during dental care. It provides a deep sleep-like state for the child to help with anxiety, and it keeps them from moving or talking during their treatment. If your child needs general anesthesia, they will be monitored by anesthesiologists in order to provide safe care while assisting you with all of your dental needs at one time.

Benefits of general anesthesia

There are some benefits to utilizing general anesthesia to facilitate a child’s dental care. In fact it is the best way to provide care for some children. If a child is extremely anxious, uncooperative, or has a large amount of work they may benefit from treatment under general anesthesia. General anesthesia makes children more comfortable because they fall into a deep sleep-like state. This minimizes any fear or anxiety a child may have, and makes it so they don’t cry, move, or talk during treatment so they feel safe and accidents are avoided. A child treated under general anesthesia will also complete all of their treatment in one visit.

Side effects and risks of general anesthesia

The most common side effects can include a sore throat, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness and memory loss. A child’s behavior immediately following the application of anesthesia is usually sleepy, groggy, disruptive, or upset. Therefore, it is encouraged that caregivers to stay present in order to help with bringing the child back after surgery. In some cases, children can experience an allergic reaction to certain medications. Extremely rare dangers are a decrease in heartbeats and breathing that may lead to organ damage or death. We take safety very seriously at our office and follow guidelines set forth by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. You can rest assured that your child will be in good hands while undergoing surgery.

Reducing general anesthetic risks in children and adolescents 

While general anesthesia for children has a very safe track record we take many steps to attempt to eliminate unforeseen circumstances. Children are required to have a physical with their regular doctor or primary care provider within 30 days of surgery. This can detect any undiagnosed health problems that could lead to a complication such as a heart or lung condition. Children must refrain from eating or drinking eight hours prior to surgery, and discuss if they should or shouldn’t take routine medications with their healthcare provider.

How to prepare your child for the dentist visit before their appointment

Explain that our staff will be gentle, caring, and kind during this procedure as well as all future visits. Refrain from talking about things that may be difficult experiences like needles, extractions, crowns or fillings; remember your child will be asleep and have a very positive and safe dental experience. Be sure to discuss any concerns or questions about anesthesia with the dental and anesthesia providers prior to treatment.