What Is Dental Treatment Under General Anesthesia?
Dental treatment under general anesthesia is a procedure in which the patient is put to sleep under the supervision of an anesthesiologist, and the planned procedures are completed during this time. The patient is not awake during the procedure and does not perceive pain or the sounds of the treatment.
This method does not change the treatment itself. Fillings, root canal treatment, tooth extractions, and surgical procedures are performed according to the same principles. What changes is the setting in which the procedures are carried out. Treatments that would otherwise be spread over several sessions can often be completed in a single session.
Who Is It Suitable For?
This procedure may be considered in the following situations: adults who have delayed treatment because of dental fear, children who cannot be treated in the dental chair because of their age or level of cooperation, individuals with special needs, patients with a pronounced gag reflex, and patients scheduled to undergo extensive surgical procedures that are planned for completion in a single session.
The decision is made jointly by the dentist and anesthesiologist after an assessment. Before general anesthesia, blood tests and any other necessary examinations are requested. Existing medical conditions, medications being taken, and previous experiences with anesthesia are reviewed. General anesthesia is not suitable for every patient.
Treatment Process
1. Dental assessment: All planned procedures are determined in advance through an oral examination and imaging.
2. Anesthesia assessment: The anesthesiologist reviews the patient's medical history, examines the test results, and determines whether general anesthesia is appropriate.
3. Preparation: You must fast for a specified period before the procedure. Instructions about the fasting period and medications to be used are provided in advance.
4. Procedure: Once the patient is asleep, all planned procedures are performed. Breathing, heart rhythm, and oxygen levels are monitored throughout the procedure.
5. Recovery and observation: The patient remains under observation in the recovery room. The anesthesiologist decides when the patient can be discharged, and an accompanying adult is required that day.