General Anesthesia
Dental Treatment with General Anesthesia
During dental treatments performed under general anesthesia, the patient is completely unconscious. This method is generally preferred for long and complex surgical procedures, pediatric patients, or individuals with special needs .
Before the procedure, the patient undergoes a detailed examination to assess their suitability for anesthesia. It is recommended that you refrain from eating or drinking for a certain period before the procedure.
The patient is rendered completely unconscious with intravenous medication. Anesthesiologists continuously monitor the patient's breathing, pulse, and other vital functions. After the procedure is completed, the patient is awakened and kept under observation for a period of time. It is recommended that the patient rest with a companion until the effects of the anesthesia wear off.
Sedation
Dental Treatment with Conscious Sedation
In addition to the two methods mentioned above, there's also conscious sedation. This method is a safe and controlled anesthetic method that allows the patient to relax and reduce anxiety, while maintaining complete consciousness. During the procedure, the patient is partially aware of their surroundings, can respond to the doctor's instructions, and can maintain their own breathing. It's typically performed with intravenous medications, oral sedatives, or nasal nitrous oxide gas. Conscious sedation, preferred for dental procedures, diagnostic procedures such as endoscopy, and minor surgeries, both increases comfort and shortens recovery time.
Differences Between Sedation and General Anesthesia
During sedation, the patient continues to breathe normally. Unlike general anesthesia, a technique called respiratory intubation is used. During general anesthesia, a tube is inserted into the patient, one end of which is connected to a device that inflates air into the lungs. The muscle relaxants used during intubation may cause the patient to wake up later. However, with sedation, the patient recovers very quickly after the procedure. No medication is administered into the systemic circulation during sedation; sleep is induced solely by inhaling (sniffing) gas. Sedation is an extremely comfortable and convenient method for patients.
Who is Sedation Dental Treatment Suitable For?
Sedation dental treatment is generally recommended for individuals who have a fear of the dentist, a fear of needles, or who experience claustrophobia in the dental chair. Sedation dental treatment aims to reduce anxiety and fear. It helps patients relax. The dentist can work more efficiently, resulting in faster and more effective treatment.
Sedation dental treatment may be recommended for the following situations:
People with a fear of the dentist
Patients who are afraid of dental treatment
Those with an excessive gag reflex
Patients with a fear of needles
People with high tooth sensitivity
Those who experience claustrophobia in the dental chair
Those with low sensitivity to local anesthesia
Individuals who have difficulty controlling their muscle movements
Patients with special physical, cognitive, or behavioral needs
What are the Harms of Sedation?
Sedation dental treatment is generally safe when administered by a qualified healthcare professional. However, drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, and dizziness may occur after the procedure.
Side effects of sedation generally include:
Drowsiness and dizziness
Dry mouth (xerostomia)
Nausea and vomiting
Headache
Mild bruising after intravenous sedation
It is recommended not to use public transportation after sedation. You will need a familiar person who can drive you home safely. It is important that your companion stay with you until you are comfortably settled in your bed or on the couch.
Sedation is generally not recommended for pregnant women. Some sedative medications can affect fetal development, so many dentists prefer to postpone sedation treatments until after pregnancy.
General Anesthesia and Sedation FAQ
Q: What is the difference between sedation and general anesthesia? A: Sedation (Conscious Sedation): The patient is administered sedatives intravenously. The patient remains conscious and obeys commands (e.g., "Open your mouth"), but forgets all fear and anxiety and relaxes. They do not remember the procedure. General Anesthesia: The patient is completely asleep and unconscious. It is particularly used for long-term surgical procedures, individuals with disabilities, or children who cannot communicate.
Q: Is anesthesia safe for dental treatment? A: Yes, it is extremely safe. Procedures are managed by an anesthesiologist and his team at our fully equipped clinic. Throughout the treatment, all your vital signs (pulse, blood pressure, oxygen) are closely monitored by the anesthesiologist.
Q: Who are these methods suitable for? A: They are ideal for those with an extreme fear of the dentist (dentophobia), those who cannot undergo treatment due to a nausea reflex, individuals with disabilities, young children, and patients who want to complete multiple dental procedures (implants, fillings, extractions) in a single visit.