General Anaesthetic for Dental Treatment at Dental at Keys
At Dental at Keys, we understand that some patients require additional support to undergo dental treatment comfortably and safely. General anaesthetic for dental procedures allows you to be fully asleep while treatment is performed, either in a hospital, at our practice or accredited day surgery facility.
Unlike IV sedation, a dental general anaesthetic places you in a deep state of unconsciousness and requires breathing assistance from a specialist anaesthetist throughout the procedure.
Our team only recommends general anaesthetic dental treatment when it is clinically necessary or when it represents the safest and most appropriate option for complex care.
Why Might I Need a General Anaesthetic for Dental Treatment?
Most dental procedures can be completed comfortably using local anaesthetic or IV sedation. However, in certain circumstances, a general anaesthetic dentist referral may be recommended to ensure optimal safety, comfort and treatment outcomes.
Common reasons for requiring general anaesthetic in dentistry include:
Young children or patients with special needs who cannot tolerate dental treatment (often requiring referral to a dental specialist)
Severe dental anxiety or dental phobia
A pronounced gag reflex that prevents safe treatment
Complex oral surgery such as dental trauma, jaw fractures, bone grafting or advanced implant procedures
Medical conditions that require dental treatment in a hospital environment
Surgical removal of impacted wisdom teeth close to the jaw nerve
The Process for Dental Treatment Under General Anaesthetic
If you think you may need general anaesthetic for dental work, the first step is a comprehensive consultation at Dental at Keys. This includes a thorough examination, diagnostic X-rays and a personalised treatment plan.
Your dentist will carefully review:
Your dental needs
Your medical history
Your anxiety levels and comfort preferences
We will discuss all suitable options, including local anaesthetic, IV sedation or general anaesthetic, so you can make an informed decision.
If a dental general anaesthetic is recommended, we will arrange a consultation with an experienced specialist anaesthetist. They will assess your suitability, review your medical history and explain the process in detail.
Once approved, your treatment will be scheduled at either our practice, a hospital or accredited day surgery facility.
What Is the Cost of General Anaesthetic for Dental Treatment?
The total cost of dental procedures performed under general anaesthetic may include:
Dental treatment fees (may be claimable through private health insurance)
Specialist anaesthetist fees (may be partly claimable through Medicare)
Hospital or day surgery facility fees (depending on your Medicare and health fund cover)
Coverage depends on your individual health fund policy, the type of treatment required and your clinical circumstances.
Once your treatment plan and item numbers are confirmed, our team at Dental at Keys can assist you in obtaining estimates and understanding potential rebates.
Because of the specialised facilities, medications, equipment and highly trained medical team involved, general anaesthetic dental treatment is usually more costly than procedures performed with local anaesthetic or IV sedation.
If you are considering general anaesthetic for dental treatment, contact Dental at Keys today to book a consultation and discuss whether this option is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need a General Anaesthetic for Dental Implants?
Most dental implant procedures are comfortably performed under local anaesthetic. A general anaesthetic for dental implants may only be recommended for patients with severe anxiety, specific medical conditions, or when extensive bone grafting or complex surgery is required.
Are General Anaesthetics Safe for Dental Treatment?
Yes. Dental general anaesthetics are widely used and considered very safe when carefully planned. A specialist anaesthetist will thoroughly review your medical history to minimise risks and ensure the safest possible outcome.
How Long Does Recovery Take After Dental General Anaesthetic?
Recovery varies between patients, but most are monitored for several hours after treatment and can go home the same day. You may feel drowsy, tired or mildly nauseous and will need a responsible adult to escort you home.
Can I Eat or Drink Before a General Anaesthetic?
No. You will receive strict fasting instructions prior to your procedure. Avoiding food and drink for several hours beforehand is essential for your safety and to reduce the risk of complications during the anaesthetic.
