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What is General Anesthesia and How Does it Work?
Have you ever thought about how a dentist does a complicated treatment without causing pain? This is where general anesthesia in Grande Prairie is used. Anesthesia is a medical procedure where the patient becomes completely unconscious and has no pain during certain treatments. Experiencing anxiety before a dental procedure is common. Learning how anesthesia works will help you stay calm.
What is General Anesthesia?
General anesthesia is a medication-induced sleep during which you feel nothing and are completely asleep. While local anesthesia only affects part of your body, general anesthesia affects your whole body, including your brain. With general anesthesia, you are completely unaware of what is taking place.
- It is used in long or difficult dental procedures.
- It keeps the patients still and calm, making the treatment process safer.
- The dentist can perform multiple procedures in one visit without it being stressful.
How Does General Anesthesia Work?
How general anesthesia works is an important question. General anesthesia uses a combination of medications that affect your nervous system. Here’s a simple breakdown.
Step | What Happens |
Induction | You are given medication through an IV or gas, which makes you fall asleep quickly. |
Maintenance | Continuous medication keeps you unconscious throughout the procedure. |
Monitoring | Your heart rate, breathing, and oxygen levels are closely monitored to ensure safety. |
Recovery | After the procedure, medication is stopped, and you slowly wake up under supervision. |
It helps in achieving safety and comfort for the patient in such a way that any dental procedure is done without any hassle or pain and with the avoidance of any fear.
What Can You Expect During a General Anesthetic Procedure?
If you are going to have a procedure that requires a general anesthetic, it can ease worries. Here are the key points.
- The dentist will ask about the medicines you take and your health history.
- You may be instructed not to eat or drink anything for several hours before the procedure.
- Nurses and/or dental assistants monitor vital signs during the procedure to ensure everything is safe.
- After you wake up, you may feel sleepy and/or a little sick. It’s normal and usually passes within a few hours.
Who Can Benefit From General Anesthesia?
General anesthesia can be helpful for:
- People with dental anxiety or fear.
- Patients needing extensive dental work in one visit
- Kids or other special needs people who may have trouble remaining still during treatment.
- Individuals who do not wish to feel pain or stress during dental procedures.
Is General Anesthesia Safe?
Yes, general anesthesia is considered safe when it is conducted under supervision. Dental professionals and physicians will aim to eliminate risks associated with anesthesia. Many patients can rely on it for continuous monitoring and advanced techniques.
- It is possible that you experience mild side effects such as short-term sleepiness, vomiting, and the feeling of the throat being sore due to the tube.
- Major complications are rare.
- A comprehensive check-up for the patient’s safety is required before the procedure.
How to Prepare for a General Anesthetic Procedure?
Preparation is simple but important:
- Follow fasting instructions.
- Organize for someone 18 or older to take you home after the procedure.
- Wear comfortable clothes and avoid wearing jewelry.
- Discuss your medications and health concerns with your dentist in Grande Prairie.
Enjoy Relaxing Dental Treatment at Gateway Dentistry Group
We at Gateway Dentistry Group are fully aware that the situation leading to a procedure can make one feel anxious. We ensure your experience is as comfortable and smooth as possible. You can get the dental care you need, without discomfort and anxiety, with general anesthesia.
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Ready to experience stress-free dental treatment? Contact Gateway Dentistry Group today to book an appointment with us for a healthier, pain-free smile.
