General Anesthesia

Outpatient General Anesthesia is recommended for apprehensive children, very young children, and children with special needs. General anesthesia renders your child completely asleep. It would be the same as if he/she was having their tonsils removed, ear tubes or other various surgeries. General anesthesia is performed in a hospital or outpatient setting only. While the assumed risks are slightly greater than that of other treatment options, if general anesthesia is suggested for your child, the benefits of treatment this way have been deemed to outweigh the risks. Most pediatric medical literature places the risk of a serious reaction in the range of 1 in 25,000 to 1 in 200,000, far better than the assumed risk of even driving a car. The risks of NO treatment include tooth pain, infection, swelling, the spread of new decay, damage to their developing adult teeth and possible life-threatening hospitalization from a dental infection.

Nitrous Oxide (commonly known as Laughing Gas)

This is a blend of two gasses: oxygen & nitrous oxide. When inhaled, it is absorbed by the body and has a calming effect. Your child will remain conscious and alert throughout the procedure , yet they will experience a sense of well-being and relaxation and be less worried about the sights, sounds and sensations associated with dental treatment. Nitrous oxide is one of the safest sedation options in dentistry and is quickly eliminated from the body by normal breathing.

Prior to  your appointment:

  • Please notify us of any change in your child’s health. Please do not bring your child for treatment with a fever, ear infection or cold. Should your child become ill, please contact us if it is necessary to postpone the appointment.
  • The child’s parent or legal guardian must remain at the hospital or surgical site waiting room during the complete procedure.
  • It is important to inform the doctor of any drugs that your child is currently taking and any drug reactions and/or change in medical history.
  • Please dress your child in loose fitting, comfortable clothing.
  • Your child should not have milk or solid food after midnight prior to the scheduled procedure and clear liquids ONLY (water, apple juice) for up to 6 hours prior to the appointment.

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