Visiting the dentist is an important part of maintaining your health. Regular check-ups and cleanings require minimal time out of your day and ensure that you prevent more serious problems in the future.
However, intensive procedures often require you to be put to sleep at the dentist. Many patients worry and have preconceived notions about the safety of general anaesthesia. But is there any reason to worry? Is it really safe to be put to sleep at the dentist?
General Anaesthesia
Sometimes an oral surgeon will decide that general anaesthesia is appropriate for your procedure. It’s an ideal way to prevent any discomfort that might occur during the procedure. Your dental health practitioner will consult with you on the options available.
In some cases, general anaesthesia is the best and safest option. During your procedure, vital indicators such as oxygen and heart rate are monitored. This prevents any issues and allows the administering practitioner to safely apply the right dosage of anaesthesia.
Why It’s Safe
The anaesthesia and sedation methods used by your doctor will depend on your procedure and health history. Some treatments will require a higher level of comfort to be performed effectively, making it necessary that you be put to sleep.
Dentists use medications that are easily processed by the body to make it comfortable for you and allow for an easier recovery. Many dental experts consider general anaesthesia safer than local anaesthesia in certain cases.
The Experience
Patients who are put to sleep at the dentist report feeling completely free of discomfort. General anaesthesia is especially useful for patients who experience high levels of anxiety, making it possible for them to treat serious dental issues and prevent future problems.
The onset of sedation is quick and can feel surprisingly pleasant to many patients. More importantly, the dosage of the medication can be easily customized to your own unique needs, further enhancing its safety.
An additional benefit of being put to sleep is the elimination of issues related to the gag reflex. Many patients are especially sensitive in this regard when undergoing dental work.
Similarly, those who have a significant fear of needles and injections use general anaesthesia as a means of avoiding this phobia.
The safety of being put to sleep at the dentist office has long been established. Many patients use it to successfully avoid the discomfort and anxiety around many treatments. Dentists apply general anaesthesia in a way that is appropriate for you and ensures your complete safety!
