Although many children do well in operative dental procedures, there are select cases where traditional treatment cannot be tolerated. Children with extensive dental treatment needs who are very young (under the age of 4) typically cannot cope in a cooperative fashion for repeated procedures.
In addition, toddlers are not capable of understanding the complex ideas involved in fixing cavities and why they have to sit still or be numb, which creates a barrier for the safe completion of treatment in office. Similarly, patients with developmental delays or special needs may have challenges with completing comprehensive dental care in the traditional office setting.
For these occasions, and on an individual case basis, general anesthesia may be recommended. General anesthesia renders the patient completely asleep, just as if he or she were having tonsils removed or ear tubes placed.
All of the necessary dental treatment is completed while the patient is asleep and being monitored by an anesthesiologist. General anesthesia is not a casual recommendation, but one provided with consideration for the safety and well-being of the patient.
Risks and benefits of undergoing dental treatment under general anesthesia are carefully considered for each patient. In-depth consultations are completed with families to guarantee a thorough understanding of the process and guidelines for dental surgery.
For more information about our general anesthesia service, please visit m2anesthesia.com