General Anesthesia

General Anesthesia

General anesthesia is an anesthesia method used in dentistry and oral and maxillofacial surgery that allows procedures to be performed painlessly and comfortably by completely putting the patient to sleep. It is especially preferred for long, extensive, or surgical interventions. The patient’s consciousness is temporarily suspended, eliminating pain and stress during the procedure.

What is general anesthesia?

General anesthesia is a medical procedure in which the patient’s consciousness, reflexes, and pain perception are temporarily and safely suppressed. It is administered by an anesthesiologist in an operating room, and the patient is continuously monitored throughout the procedure. After the procedure, the patient is awakened in a controlled manner.

In which cases is general anesthesia used?

It is used for long surgical procedures, multiple tooth extractions in a single session, advanced jaw surgery, and in patients experiencing high levels of anxiety. It can also be preferred for children, individuals with disabilities, and cases where procedures cannot be performed under local anesthesia.

Precautions Before General Anesthesia

A detailed health assessment should be performed before anesthesia, and the patient’s systemic diseases and medications must be reported to the anesthesiologist. The patient should remain fasting and without fluids for the specified period before the procedure. All instructions given by the physician must be followed precisely.

Precautions After General Anesthesia

After the procedure, dizziness, nausea, or fatigue may occur for a while. The patient is monitored until fully alert. It is recommended not to drive, avoid making important decisions, and rest during the first 24 hours. Following the physician’s care instructions and attending control appointments is important for a safe recovery.