General Anaesthesia and Sedation

At our dental practice, we understand that the prospect of undergoing dental treatment can be daunting for many patients. That’s why we offer comprehensive general anaesthesia and sedation options to ensure your comfort and ease throughout your visit. These advanced techniques are designed to help patients relax and undergo dental procedures without experiencing pain or anxiety, making it possible to receive the care they need in a stress-free environment.

What is General Anaesthesia?

General anaesthesia involves administering medication that induces a deep state of unconsciousness, ensuring that you are completely unaware and free of any sensations during the dental procedure. This method is typically reserved for complex or lengthy treatments, or for patients with severe dental phobia. Under general anaesthesia, a qualified anaesthetist will monitor your vital signs continuously, ensuring your safety and comfort from start to finish.

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry encompasses a range of techniques used to help patients relax while remaining conscious during their dental treatment. There are several levels of sedation:

1. Minimal Sedation: You will be awake but feel relaxed.
2. Moderate Sedation (Conscious Sedation): You may slur your words and not remember much of the procedure.
3. Deep Sedation: You are on the edge of consciousness but can still be awakened.
4. General Anaesthesia: You are completely unconscious.

The choice of sedation depends on the nature of the procedure and the patient’s level of anxiety.

Types of Sedation

1. Inhalation Sedation (Nitrous Oxide): Often referred to as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is a mild sedative that is inhaled through a mask placed over your nose. It helps you relax while allowing you to remain awake and responsive. The effects wear off quickly, making it safe to drive home after the procedure.
2. Oral Sedation: This involves taking a prescribed medication, usually in pill form, prior to the appointment. The medication will make you drowsy, but you will still be awake. For some patients, oral sedation may induce a light sleep.
3. Intravenous (IV) Sedation: Administered through a vein, IV sedation works quickly, allowing for precise control over the level of sedation. You will remain conscious but in a deeply relaxed state, often with little memory of the procedure.
4. General Anaesthesia: As mentioned, this is used for more intensive procedures, providing complete unconsciousness.

Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

• Reduced Anxiety: Many patients delay or avoid dental visits due to fear. Sedation helps in managing anxiety, making it easier to receive necessary care.
• Pain-Free Experience: Sedation ensures that you do not feel any pain during the procedure, which is particularly beneficial for those with low pain thresholds.
• Efficient Treatment: With sedation, dentists can perform multiple or complex procedures in a single visit, reducing the number of appointments required.
• Gag Reflex Control: For patients with a sensitive gag reflex, sedation can help suppress this reflex, making the treatment more comfortable for both the patient and the dentist.

Safety and Preparation

Our team prioritises your safety at every step. Before administering any form of sedation, we conduct a thorough medical assessment to determine the most appropriate and safe option for you. During the procedure, we monitor your vital signs continuously to ensure your wellbeing.

Aftercare

Post-procedure care is essential to ensure a smooth recovery. We provide detailed instructions tailored to the type of sedation used. Most patients feel drowsy after sedation and are advised to have someone accompany them home.

Conclusion

At our practice, your comfort and safety are paramount. Whether you need a routine cleaning or a more complex procedure, our sedation options are designed to provide a calm and painless dental experience. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about our general anaesthesia and sedation services, please do not hesitate to contact us. Let us help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile without the stress.

For more information or to book an appointment, please contact our hospital directly.