General Anesthesia

What is General Anesthesia?
General Anesthesia is a sedation technique that decreases ones consciousness to such a level that a special breathing tube is placed in the throat to assist the patient breath. At this level of sedation the patient is unable to respond to verbal stimulation.

Where can I get General Anesthesia for dental services?
General Anesthesia is rarely used for dentistry. Some dental schools associated with hospitals offer this rare service.

Why is General Anesthesia rarely used for dentistry?
Almost ever dental treatment and patients fears, anxiety and phobias can be managed with inhalation, oral sedation or IV Sedation. Therefore, there really is no need to take a patient to this level of sedation. It should be noted that Oral Surgeons routinely used General Anesthesia for their treatment services. These services are surgical in nature like moving the jaw to a new position in order to improve the patients aesthetics or their jaw function. Obviously, if you are having this type of surgery you would like to be unconscious!

Who is a candidate for General Anesthesia?
People who are medically compromised (ie. very sick) are usually the ones who are admitted to a hospital to have this type of sedation.