How is General Anesthesia Performed in Children?
General anesthesia is one of the methods used for dental treatments in children. The administration of general anesthesia is carried out through a collaborative effort between the dentist and the anesthesia specialist in a hospital setting. Prior to administering general anesthesia, the child undergoes an examination by the anesthesia specialist, and the results of any tests conducted are evaluated to determine the child's suitability for general anesthesia.
How is Dental Treatment Performed Under General Anesthesia?
The preparation of the child for surgery, induction of anesthesia, intraoperative monitoring, postoperative awakening, and recovery process are all managed by the anesthesia specialist and their team. While the child is under anesthesia, dental treatments are performed by the dentist and their team. During general anesthesia, all necessary dental treatments and protective measures are undertaken with the aim of addressing any stains, decay, or infections present in the oral cavity.
Post-General Anesthesia Care
Children who have undergone dental treatment under general anesthesia should attend regular check-up appointments as recommended by their dentist and pay attention to oral hygiene and dietary habits. During check-up appointments, which should ideally occur at least three times a year, the child's dietary habits and oral hygiene are assessed by the dentist. Additionally, simple techniques are employed to help alleviate the child's anxiety towards dental treatments, and preventive measures are implemented. In many cases, witnessing the completion of dental treatments under general anesthesia can lead to a reduction in the child's anxiety.
Who Can Benefit from Dental Treatment Under General Anesthesia?
The general anesthesia method may be utilized for children who are unable to cooperate with dental treatments in a clinical setting, exhibit unresponsiveness to behavior management techniques employed by the dentist, or are unable to tolerate the required level of treatment intensity. Additionally, children with chronic systemic illnesses, an exaggerated gag reflex, or syndromes such as autism or Down syndrome may also be candidates for general anesthesia.
When is General Anesthesia Administered?
General anesthesia is employed when a child is unable to tolerate dental treatment in a clinical setting. The decision to utilize general anesthesia takes into account factors such as the child's level of anxiety, the extent of decay, systemic illnesses, and the presence of a gag reflex. Prior to the decision to administer general anesthesia, the child should undergo multiple evaluations and examinations in a clinical setting.
Article by: Dt. Dilara Salcıoğlu
