Hospital Dentistry and General Anesthesia
Dr. Akkaway is on staff at Englewood Hospital, located just five minutes from our office. Although our office has a fully equipped modern surgical suite and a board-certified anesthesiologist on staff, sometimes a hospital setting is preferred. Occasionally, the insurance company requires the procedure be done in a hospital for payment or there may be health-related considerations. Our office will help you to select what works best for you and the patient. Before any sedation or anesthesia is scheduled, Dr. Akkaway consults with your child’s pediatrician to determine the best method to provide your child with optimum dental care.
General anesthesia is a controlled state of unconsciousness that eliminates awareness, movement and discomfort during dental treatment. A physician or dentist with specialized training can use various medications to provide general anesthesia for patients receiving dental care.
General anesthesia may be indicated for children with extensive dental needs who are extremely uncooperative, fearful or anxious or for the very young who do not understand how to cooperate. General anesthesia also can be helpful for children requiring significant surgical procedures or patients having special health care needs.
Although there is some risk associated with general anesthesia, it can be used safely and effectively when administered by an appropriately-trained individual in an appropriately-equipped facility. Precautions are taken to protect your child during general anesthesia; personnel who are trained to manage complications will monitor your child closely. Your pediatric dentist will discuss the benefits and risks of general anesthesia and why it is recommended for your child.