Did you know that approximately 10 to 30% of people have some level of anxiety about undergoing dental procedures? This causes people with dental issues to delay getting treatment, worsening the issue, and leading to additional discomfort. Fortunately, in modern times, we have a variety of sedation options to help even the most anxious patients get the essential dental care they need. General anesthesia is the highest level of sedation that a dental patient can receive, but who makes a good candidate? Continue reading to learn more about how general anesthesia works and when it’s used.
How Does General Anesthesia Work?
General anesthesia is mostly used for major and minor surgeries in a hospital setting, but it can also be used for dental procedures. After the medication is administered intravenously and through inhaling gases, the patient loses consciousness, making them unable to feel any sensations or remember the duration of the treatment. This allows the oral surgeon to complete the treatment as efficiently as possible, and the patient only feels like they’ve taken a long nap.
Who Is a Candidate for General Anesthesia?
General anesthesia is a very powerful sedative option, so it isn’t the best option for everyone. It may be a good option for you if:
- Your tolerance for other sedation options is very high.
- Your procedure is especially complex or extensive.
- You have an extreme phobia of dental or medical procedures.
- You don’t have any health issues that could make general anesthesia risky.
What Precautions Are Necessary for General Anesthesia?
Because general anesthesia is so strong, your oral surgeon must consider precautions for those with the following:
- Special Needs: People with special needs require careful evaluation of the type and level of sedation they need.
- Advanced Age: Older adults with certain health issues may need dose adjustments and careful monitoring during and after their surgery.
- Pregnancy: If you are pregnant, your oral surgeon will discuss your options to determine what is safest for you and your baby.
- Neurological Conditions: If you have a history of stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, thyroid disease, or mental illness, there could be an increased risk.
- Liver, Kidney, Lung, or Heart Problems: People with issues regarding these organs may need dose adjustments because the drug may take longer to leave the body.
General anesthesia is very powerful, and it can be a helpful tool to help certain patients get the treatment they need. If you have a dental procedure coming up, you can discuss your sedation options with your oral surgeon to determine the best option to meet your needs.
About the Practice
At South Florida Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, we have a team of five experienced oral surgeons. With their combined skills and expertise, patients can receive a wide range of treatments at one of our three convenient locations. All of our oral surgeons have been certified by the Florida Board of Dentistry for General Anesthesia, so our patients are in good hands. To learn more about sedation dentistry or to schedule a consultation, visit our website or call (561) 203-5744.