You may have heard that dental procedures at Sleep Dentistry with Dr. Kevin Mahoney can be performed under general anesthesia — a practice also referred to as sleep dentistry. But what exactly is general anesthesia, how is it done, and what distinguishes it from a) other forms of anesthesia and b) deep sedation? Why might sleep dentistry be right for you? Let’s dig into it here!
What is General Anesthesia?
General anesthesia is a type of anesthesia that induces a complete loss of consciousness, making the patient unaware of their surroundings and unable to feel pain. It is typically used for more complex surgical procedures (such as major surgeries) and is administered by an anesthesiologist. General anesthesia can be induced through various methods, including gas inhalation, intravenous medications, or a combination of both. During the procedure, the anesthesiologist carefully monitors the patient’s vital signs to ensure their safety and well-being. This level of anesthesia ensures that the patient remains completely unconscious and does not experience any pain or discomfort during the surgery.
Risks and Benefits
As with any medical procedure, general anesthesia carries both risks and benefits. The primary benefit is the complete pain relief it provides during the procedure, allowing for complex surgeries that would be impossible under local anesthesia. Additionally, general anesthesia helps reduce anxiety and stress, making the experience more comfortable for the patient.
However, there are also risks associated with general anesthesia. Respiratory complications, such as difficulty breathing, can occur, and cardiovascular complications, like changes in blood pressure or heart rate, are possible. Nausea and vomiting are common side effects, and in rare cases, allergic reactions to the anesthesia can occur.
There is also an increased risk of infection. It’s essential to discuss these risks and benefits with your anesthesiologist to determine if general anesthesia is the right choice for your specific procedure.
Recovery and Aftercare
After undergoing general anesthesia, patients typically require a period of recovery. This includes monitoring vital signs, such as heart rate and blood pressure, to ensure stability. Oxygen therapy may be provided to assist with breathing, and pain management is crucial to control any discomfort. Medications to prevent nausea and vomiting are often administered to avoid complications.
Rest is vital during the recovery period to allow the body to heal. Patients should follow the instructions provided, which may include avoiding heavy lifting, bending, or strenuous activities. Adhering to a specific diet and medication regimen is also important for a smooth and safe recovery. By following these guidelines, patients can ensure a quicker return to their normal activities and overall well-being.
Other Types of Anesthesia
The other commonly used types of anesthesia - local and regional - are differentiated by how much of the body they affect.
Local anesthesia
Often administered topically or through injection, local anesthesia numbs only the site being worked on. Novocaine, which originated in the early 1900s, may be the most familiar example from the dentist’s office. However, it has since been replaced in most dental offices by lidocaine.
Regional anesthesia
Usually injected through the spine, regional anesthesia cuts off sensation to a more extensive portion of the body. In dental practice, it might be applied to interrupt pain signals to the jaw (i.e., mandible). One popular example of regional anesthesia being used outside of dentistry would be an epidural administered during childbirth.
The effectiveness of regional anesthesia can vary based on how the body responds and individual health habits.
The 3 Levels of Sedation
Sedation calms or soothes the patient to varying degrees, but in no form is the patient truly unconscious. Conscious sedation is often used for minor procedures to keep patients comfortable without the need for deeper anesthesia.
Different levels of sedation impact patient response and awareness during procedures.
1. Minimal sedation
Under minimal sedation, a patient can still respond to questioning and follow directions. It’s typically used in minimally invasive outpatient procedures and can aid with patient communication, cooperation, and relaxation.
2. Moderate sedation
Moderately sedated patients will feel drowsier but are still capable of responding. It might be applied in situations where a patient is acting in a defiant or belligerent fashion. Moderate sedation often involves the use of sedative drugs to achieve the desired level of drowsiness.
3. Deep sedation
When deeply sedated, patients will not stir from their sleep unless repeatedly or painfully stimulated. Willful recall of the procedure is rare.
Deep sedation often involves analgesia (painkillers) to manage pain and allows patients to breathe on their own.
Finding a Dentist That Offers Sedation Through Anesthesia
To ensure a completely painless and comfortable experience for our patients, Sleep Dentistry with Dr. Kevin Mahoney utilizes general anesthesia to get more work done in less time, removing dental fear and anxiety from the equation. If you think you'd be a good candidate for sleep dentistry, there are several reasons why you might choose Dr. Mahoney. For results that you’ll remember without the potentially painful process of getting there, schedule an appointment with Dr. Mahoney today!