Sedation Dentistry
General Anesthesia
For some patients, general anesthesia may be discussed as an option for extensive dental treatment or when significant anxiety makes care in the dental chair very difficult.
Sedation services at West End Dental Centre are arranged through our general practice. We are not a hospital or a specialist anaesthesia clinic. Suitability is assessed individually, and not every patient or procedure is a candidate.
What is general anesthesia?
General anesthesia is a medically controlled state in which a patient is unconscious and does not respond during treatment. It is different from local anesthetic, which numbs only the area being treated while you stay awake.
Because general anesthesia affects the whole body, it carries more considerations than local anesthetic alone. It is not a routine part of dental care and is only considered when your dentist feels it may be appropriate for your situation.
When it may be discussed
Your dentist may raise general anesthesia as something to explore in situations such as:
- Extensive treatment that would otherwise need many long appointments
- Significant dental anxiety that has made treatment in the chair very difficult
- Medical or other needs that make other approaches unsuitable
Whether general anesthesia is appropriate depends on your health, the treatment needed and other factors. Only an individual assessment can confirm whether it is an option for you.
How the decision is made
If general anesthesia may be an option, your care is planned carefully and you are involved at each step:
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Conversation with your dentist
Your dentist reviews your dental needs, your concerns and your experience with past treatment.
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Health review
Your medical history, medications and overall health are reviewed. Further medical information or assessment may be needed.
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Options and alternatives
Your dentist explains why general anesthesia is being considered, what the process may involve, and the alternatives, including treatment with local anesthetic.
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Arrangements
If you decide to proceed and are a suitable candidate, the arrangements are explained to you. These may involve a referral to another provider, or treatment at a hospital or other facility.
Questions to ask
Before any decision is made, you are welcome to ask questions about where and how treatment would be provided, who would be involved in your care, how to prepare, what recovery may involve, and what costs or insurance considerations may apply. Your dentist will explain the information that applies to you.
You do not need to commit to anything at a first conversation. Taking time to understand your options is part of the process.
Talk to us about your concerns
If anxiety or the amount of treatment you need has kept you from the dentist, call 780-944-2828 to book a visit and talk it through. Your dentist can explain your options, which may or may not include general anesthesia, and help you decide on a plan. Learn more on our sedation dentistry overview.
Sedation Dentistry
- Sedation Dentistry Overview
- General Anesthesia
Questions about general anesthesia?
Call 780-944-2828 or book an appointment online.