General anesthesia in dentistry is a form of anesthesia in which the patient is rendered completely unconscious for the duration of a dental procedure. It is typically used for complex or invasive procedures that may be uncomfortable or painful, such as oral surgery or wisdom teeth removal.

 

During general anesthesia, the patient is administered a combination of medications to induce and maintain a state of deep unconsciousness. This can include intravenous (IV) medications or inhalational agents. The patient is closely monitored by a trained anesthesia provider throughout the procedure to ensure their safety and wellbeing.

 

General anesthesia is generally considered safe when administered by a trained professional in a controlled environment. However, there are some risks associated with general anesthesia, including complications such as respiratory depression, aspiration, and cardiovascular events.

 

Before undergoing general anesthesia for a dental procedure, the patient will typically undergo a thorough medical evaluation to ensure that they are healthy enough to tolerate the procedure and the anesthesia. The patient will also be instructed to follow specific pre-operative instructions, such as fasting for a certain period of time before the procedure.

 

After the procedure, the patient will be closely monitored during the recovery period to ensure that they are able to safely recover from the effects of the anesthesia. The anesthesia provider will also provide post-operative instructions and medications to help manage any pain or discomfort.