General Anesthesia
For some patients—and some treatments—being asleep is the right call.
There are times when local freezing or light sedation just isn’t enough. It might be a medical issue. Or fear that runs deep. Or a complex surgery that’s better handled without the stress of staying awake.
Whatever the reason, general anesthesia creates the space to get through it—fully asleep, closely monitored, and without remembering a thing.
It’s not used often, but when it’s needed, it can change everything.
Most dental work is done while you’re awake. But that’s not realistic for everyone. Some patients can’t tolerate the sounds, the pressure, or even just being in the chair. Others need extensive work that’s easier to complete in one session.
General anesthesia creates a deeper level of sedation—one that lets your dental team focus on the work, while you sleep through it completely.
You might be a candidate if:
• You have a medical or neurological condition that affects cooperation
• Past trauma or fear makes awake treatment impossible
• A complex surgery or full-mouth procedure is planned
• You’ve tried other forms of sedation without success
• You or your child have special needs that affect dental care
It’s not a shortcut. It’s a serious option, used carefully and for the right reasons.
You’ll know what’s happening long before the day arrives.
General anesthesia isn’t something that just happens. It starts with a full consultation—and clear conversations about your health, your concerns, and what to expect.
These procedures are usually done in a hospital or a surgical clinic, where medical monitoring is standard and the care team is ready for anything.
Here’s how it typically works:
• You’ll meet with the team beforehand to go over your history and medications
• Detailed instructions will be given—including fasting before the procedure
• On the day of treatment, you’ll be brought into a surgical suite
• You’ll fall asleep quickly and stay fully unconscious throughout
• Afterward, you’ll spend time in recovery before heading home with someone you trust
• Your provider will follow up with aftercare instructions and a check-in if needed
It’s a team effort—and you’ll never be left wondering what’s next.
Your dental questions, answered.
Some people need a different kind of support—and that’s okay.
If being awake during treatment isn’t an option, you’re not out of options. General anesthesia may offer a way through—safely, respectfully, and with a team that understands what you need.