General Anesthetic

General anesthesia, also referred to as putting someone to sleep or putting someone under, is a fairly routine practice in pediatric dentistry.

General anesthesia may be recommended for children with extensive dental needs who are extremely uncooperative, fearful or anxious, or for the very young who do not know how to cope in a cooperative fashion. General anesthesia can also be helpful for children requiring significant surgical procedures or patients with special health care needs.

Although there is some risk associated with general anesthesia, it can be used safely and effectively when administered by an appropriately trained individual. At BabyTooth, all general anesthesia is performed offsite at a surgical facility and administered by a professional anesthesiologist. Dr. Kari will always discuss the benefits and risks of general anaesthesia with you and why she is recommending it for your child.

A physical evaluation is required prior to general anesthesia for dental care. The physical assessment provides information to ensure the safety of your child during the general anesthesia procedure. And if your child becomes ill prior their appointment, it may be necessary to reschedule.

It is important that you following the pre-operative instructions – including fasting from fluids and foods – prior to the appointment.

Your child is discharged when stable, alert and ready to depart. Patients are often tired following the procedure, and you will be instructed to let your child rest at home with minimal activity until the next day and post-operatively dietary recommendations will be provided.