General Anesthesia for Dental Procedures: When Is It Needed?

General anesthesia is the deepest form of sedation available in dentistry. Under general anesthesia, you are completely unconscious and unable to feel pain or respond to stimuli.

When Is General Anesthesia Used?

General anesthesia in dentistry is typically reserved for extensive surgical procedures such as wisdom tooth removal or jaw surgery, patients with severe dental phobia who cannot tolerate other forms of sedation, young children who need significant dental work, patients with certain physical or cognitive disabilities, and cases where multiple complex procedures need to be completed in one visit.

How It's Administered

General anesthesia can be administered through an IV line, inhaled gases, or a combination of both. It is always administered by a qualified anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist who monitors you throughout the entire procedure.

Safety & Monitoring

During general anesthesia, your vital signs are continuously monitored including heart rate and rhythm, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, carbon dioxide levels, and body temperature. The anesthesiologist remains present throughout the procedure to ensure your safety.

Recovery

Recovery from general anesthesia takes longer than other forms of sedation. You'll spend time in a recovery area as the anesthesia wears off. Common post-anesthesia effects include grogginess and confusion, nausea, sore throat (if a breathing tube was used), and chills or shivering.

You'll need a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours. Full recovery typically takes 1-2 days.

Cost Considerations

General anesthesia is the most expensive sedation option due to the need for specialized personnel and monitoring equipment. However, many dental insurance plans cover general anesthesia when it's deemed medically necessary. Check with your insurance provider and dental office for details.