What Is General Anesthesia?
General anesthesia is a controlled medical process that puts a patient into a deep sleep, ensuring they are completely unaware of their surroundings and unable to feel pain during a dental procedure. Unlike sedation methods like nitrous oxide (commonly known as “laughing gas”) or oral sedation, general anesthesia renders the patient fully unconscious with no memory of the procedure afterward.
We commonly recommend general anesthesia in Greater St. Louis for young children, patients with special needs, or those undergoing extensive dental treatment who may otherwise experience severe anxiety or difficulty staying still during the procedure. It is a safe and effective solution for otherwise challenging dental treatments when managed by qualified professionals.
What to Expect From General Anesthesia Use
If we recommend general anesthesia for your child’s dental procedure, our team at Little Smiles of Washington will guide you through each step of the process. Here’s what you can expect before, during, and after the treatment.
Before the Procedure
- Health Assessment: Your dentist will review your child’s medical history, current medications, and allergies to determine if general anesthesia is best for their care.
- Pre-Procedure Guidelines: To ensure your child’s safety during anesthesia, we will provide specific instructions, such as not allowing your child to eat or drink for several hours before the appointment.
- Anesthesia Consultation: If required, an anesthesiologist will discuss the procedure with you in detail, addressing any concerns or questions you may have.
During the Procedure
- Monitoring: A licensed anesthesiologist or trained professional will carefully monitor your child’s vital signs, such as heart rate, breathing, and oxygen levels, throughout the procedure to ensure a safe experience.
- Pain-Free Treatment: Your child will be completely unconscious and not feel any pain at any stage of the procedure.
After the Procedure
- Waking Up: Once the procedure is complete, we will move your child to a recovery area, where they will gradually wake up under close supervision.
- Post-Procedure Care: You may notice some grogginess or mild disorientation, which is normal as the anesthesia wears off. Your dentist will provide after-care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery at home.
FAQs for Parents
We know that the thought of general anesthesia can feel daunting, especially when it involves your child. Here are some of the parents’ most common questions about general anesthesia at Little Smiles of Washington.
Is general anesthesia safe for my child?
Yes, general anesthesia is safe when administered by trained professionals in a controlled environment. Our team ensures your child’s safety with careful monitoring and thorough preparation before and during the procedure.
How do I prepare my child for the procedure?
Follow the pre-appointment instructions provided by your dentist, which usually include restrictions on food and drink consumption. Talk to your child about the procedure reassuringly to ease any anxiety.
How long does it take to recover from general anesthesia?
Most children recover within a few hours after the procedure, though some drowsiness or grogginess may last until the following day. You’ll receive post-care guidance to help your child recover smoothly.
Will my child feel pain after the procedure?
Your dentist may prescribe medication or recommend over-the-counter pain relief to manage post-procedure discomfort. Be sure to follow the after-care instructions carefully.
Do you offer general anesthesia for patients with special needs?
Absolutely. At Little Smiles of Washington, our team has experience providing compassionate, tailored care for children and patients with special needs, ensuring their comfort and safety throughout the process.
Why Choose Little Smiles of Washington for General Anesthesia?
Little Smiles of Washington is proud to provide comprehensive dental care for infants, children, adolescents, and patients with special needs. With convenient locations in Washington, Dardenne Prairie, and Hazelwood, Missouri, our experienced team is committed to offering treatments that prioritize safety, comfort, and outstanding results.
What We Offer
- Financing Options: We partner with CareCredit to make dental care accessible and affordable for all families.
- Advanced Dental Technology: Digital X-rays and cutting-edge techniques ensure accurate diagnostics and treatment.
- Kid-Friendly Amenities: From TV screens and streaming services to toys, toy towers, and goodie bags, we create an environment that helps kids feel at ease.
Our mission is to provide a welcoming and educational experience that helps young patients develop healthy oral habits for life.
General Anesthesia in Greater St. Louis
Your child’s dental health deserves the best care possible, and sometimes, this means utilizing general anesthesia for their comfort and well-being. If you’d like to learn more about how Little Smiles of Washington can assist with your child’s dental needs, we’re here to help.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to have your questions answered by our caring, professional team. Together, we can ensure your child’s dental care is a positive experience from start to finish.