General Anaesthetic Dentistry
While general anaesthetic is mostly used in minor and major surgeries in hospitals, it can also be used in dentistry for more complex procedures or for nervous patients with dental fear or anxiety.
At Dental Implant & Sleep Centre, we offer general anaesthetic for patients undergoing lengthy or complex dental procedures. This type of dental sedation induces unconsciousness.
Who is General Anaesthetic Dental for?
General anaesthesia is sometimes used to assist with dental treatment for patients undergoing invasive surgery or for those who experience significant fear or anxiety related to dental procedures.
It’s important to note that dental general anaesthesia is offered only in specific circumstances. It’s not recommended for routine procedures such as cleaning or small fillings, but may be considered in cases such as:
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Patients who have a high tolerance to other forms of sedation (e.g. IV or oral sedation)
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Patients with extreme anxiety, behavioural conditions, or disabilities
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Patients requiring complex or lengthy dental procedures
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Children under 12 who require moderate to deep sedation
At Dental Implant & Sleep Centre, our anaesthesiologist will review your medical history and may perform relevant tests to confirm you are medically fit for anaesthesia. You’ll have the opportunity to discuss the procedure and ask any questions before treatment begins.
Which Dental Treatments Can I Get General Anaesthetic for?
General anaesthesia can be administered through gas or an intravenous (IV) drip. It places patients in a controlled state of unconsciousness so they do not respond to sensations during dental procedures.
General anaesthesia may be considered for patients who experience significant dental anxiety or who require complex treatment that involves extended time in the dental chair. In these situations, it can help patients remain still and unaware during the procedure under close medical supervision.
At Dental Implant & Sleep Centre, our dental professionals use general anaesthesia in collaboration with a qualified anaesthesiologist for a range of procedures, including:
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Dental implants
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All-on-4 Plus®
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Tooth extractions, including wisdom teeth removal
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Crowns and bridges
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Root canal treatment
Side Effects of Dental Anaesthetia
When administered by qualified health professionals, general anaesthesia is considered a well-established procedure. As with all medical treatments, there are some associated risks and side effects. The most commonly reported include:
- Dizziness
- Sore throat or dry mouth
- Confusion, delirium, or hallucinations
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Numbness
- Pain at the injection site
- Slurred speech
- Sweating or shivering
- Tiredness
Get Personalised Treatment from Our Experienced Anaesthesia Dentists
Dental treatment plays an important role in maintaining oral health. If you experience anxiety about dental procedures, one of our dentists can discuss your concerns, explain each step clearly, and outline the available treatment options. Together, we’ll create a plan suited to your individual needs.
The dental team at Dental Implant & Sleep Centre will also discuss the process for general anaesthesia, including its potential benefits, risks, side effects, and alternative options relevant to your situation.