If you have dental-related fears or you’ve needed to have a certain procedure, your dentist may have used nitrous oxide, better known as “laughing gas,” to ensure your comfort. Although this is an effective form of sedation dentistry, it isn’t always enough. Instead, your oral surgeon in Marietta, OH, might recommend general anesthesia for a pain-free appointment.
Do I Need General Anesthesia?
Sedation dentistry involves various types of medications. The most common include nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation. Although they are effective for patients who have dental phobias or need an invasive treatment, like a root canal, your oral surgeon may recommend something stronger. General anesthesia allows you to fall into a relaxing sleep. It’s often needed for:
- Complex or invasive procedures, like surgical tooth extractions.
- Correcting issues caused by facial trauma.
- Patients who have congenital or developmental abnormalities.
- Reconstructive or corrective treatments.
- Need multiple invasive procedures.
What is General Anesthesia?
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons often use general anesthesia when performing complex or advanced treatments. General anesthesia contains a mixture of pain-relieving medications and sedatives, but it usually doesn’t involve paralytic drugs. It also doesn’t require a patient to be intubated. Instead, you’ll drift off into a comfortable sleep; however, you can be awakened easily after the sedative is stopped.
The medication is delivered intravenously, which causes you to fall asleep quickly. You might not even remember having the procedure performed. Although you’ll awaken quickly after the anesthesia is stopped, it can take a few hours for its effects to fully dissipate.
When administered by a trained professional, general anesthesia is safe and effective when used on the ideal candidate. Therefore, you’ll need an initial consultation to review your medical history to ensure it’s the right choice for you. If you’re a candidate, your oral surgeon can better control the amount administered to cater it to your specific needs. Don’t worry, you’ll be closely monitored during your treatment for your safety. Your oral surgeon will follow strict protocols to ensure patient safety. In the rare event a complication arises, they are specially trained to respond to the emergency.
Sit Back and Relax
If you need an invasive treatment, like jaw surgery or dental implants, you might be a candidate for general anesthesia. Your oral surgeon will perform a thorough consultation and review your treatment plan to ensure it’s the right option for your needs. You can lay back and relax while investing in the healthy, functional smile you deserve.
About Dr. Jeff Lee
Dr. Jeff Lee earned his dental degree at The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. He completed a 4-year residency to specialize in oral and maxillofacial surgery. He regularly continues his training to provide modern solutions for patients needing oral surgery. He offers general anesthesia to ensure his patients’ comfort during their procedures. If you have any questions about sedation dentistry, or you need an oral surgery, contact our office today to schedule your consultation.