{"id":210,"date":"2024-06-03T16:54:52","date_gmt":"2024-06-03T16:54:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.happyteethonline.com\/blog\/?p=210"},"modified":"2024-07-16T18:28:01","modified_gmt":"2024-07-16T18:28:01","slug":"dental-drugs-whos-a-good-candidate-for-general-anesthesia","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.happyteethonline.com\/blog\/2024\/06\/03\/dental-drugs-whos-a-good-candidate-for-general-anesthesia\/","title":{"rendered":"Dental Drugs: Who\u2019s A Good Candidate for General Anesthesia?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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If you or your child has a complex dental procedure on the horizon or are nervous about an upcoming appointment<\/a>, then you might benefit from sedation. The good news is that many providers offer a variety of sedation options, each with its own benefits and considerations. Whether it’s oral conscious sedation in pill form or laughing gas inhaled through a mask, there\u2019s more than one way to help you feel calm and responsive throughout your visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, some people experience such intense anxiety that they need to be put to sleep to receive essential oral care. In these instances, general anesthesia may be considered. If you\u2019re dreading your next dental appointment but are unsure whether you might benefit from this medication, continue reading to learn more about it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What Is General Anesthesia?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

General anesthesia refers to a state of unconsciousness that\u2019s produced by administering certain medications. Unlike other sedatives, these drugs ensure that you won\u2019t feel anything and are unable to remember your procedure after the fact. It can be dangerous if it\u2019s not monitored by a licensed professional because it can slow your cardiovascular and respiratory systems. That\u2019s why your dental team will be sure to supervise you or your child\u2019s vitals the entire time you\u2019re under.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because it comes with more risks than IV sedation or other methods, this technique is usually reserved for those with a severe dental phobia or long, complex surgeries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How is General Anesthesia Administered?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Multiple medications can be utilized for general anesthesia so the application may vary based on the type your dentist uses. Typically, you\u2019ll either receive the drug intravenously, through an injection, or by inhaling it through a mask. Once you or your child are unconscious, your provider will insert an endotracheal tube so that your body continues breathing while it\u2019s essentially paralyzed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll probably be numb for a while after your appointment and may be kept in recovery so your dentist can ensure that you don\u2019t have any adverse reactions. Then, you\u2019ll likely need someone to drive you home and relay important information about post-op instructions and follow-up visits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Who\u2019s A Good Candidate for General Anesthesia?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Because it comes with certain risks, you must schedule a consultation with your dentist before general anesthesia can be approved for you or your loved one. They\u2019ll gather information about your medical history and any current prescriptions or supplements you\u2019re taking so that they don\u2019t do anything that could harm your health. You might be approved for general anesthesia if you have:<\/p>\n\n\n\n