If dental treatment makes you very anxious, or you need extensive dental work, general anaesthetic may help. At Coburg Hill Oral Care, we offer general anaesthetic services in our practice for suitable patients. Our team can explain your estimated costs and payment options before you decide.
What Is General Anaesthetic?
General anaesthetic is a medicine that is designed to place the patient in a controlled, sleep-like state. Patients are not be aware of the procedure while it happens, and they usually do not remember it afterwards.
Some people call this 'sleep dentistry'. That term can also describe deeper forms of sedation, so please ask your dentist which type they recommend.
At our dental practice in Coburg North, general anaesthetic is administered by a professional trained in sedation. All patients are monitored throughout treatment and while they wake up.
How Is It Different from Other Sedation Options?
Local anaesthetic numbs one area of the mouth, and the patient generally stays awake. Options such as nitrous oxide are designed to help patients relax, but they are still awake and aware. With general anaesthetic, the patient is fully asleep.
Your dentist may suggest general anaesthetic when other options are not suitable. This decision depends on your needs, your medical history and the treatment you require.
Who May Benefit from General Anaesthetic?
General anaesthetic may be an option for:
- People with severe dental anxiety who have not been helped by other sedation
- Patients who need long or complex treatment, or several procedures in one visit
- People who have not had enough pain relief from local anaesthetic in the past
- Children or people with certain health needs who find it hard to stay still during treatment
General anaesthetic is not suitable for everyone. Your dentist will review your medical history and any medications you take. Some health conditions may mean another option is a better choice for you.
What Should You Expect Before and After Treatment?
You will have a consultation first. Your dentist will discuss your treatment, review your health and explain how to prepare.
You will usually need to stop eating and drinking for several hours before your appointment. Our team will give you instructions to follow. You will also need a responsible adult to take you home and stay with you afterwards.
Patients report feeling drowsy for several hours after treatment. Most people are advised not to drive, operate machinery or make important decisions for at least 24 hours. Many patients return to their usual activities the next day.
Are There Risks with General Anaesthetic?
All anaesthetics carry some risk. Common short-term effects can include nausea, a sore throat, headache and drowsiness. Serious complications are uncommon, but they can happen.
Your care team will talk with you about the risks that apply to your health before treatment begins. We encourage you to ask questions at any stage.
How Much Does General Anaesthetic Cost?
The cost depends on the treatment you need and how long it takes. There may also be fees for the anaesthetic itself. We will give you an estimate before treatment begins.
HICAPS lets us process eligible private health insurance claims in-practice. We accept NIB, HCF and other private health funds. Payment plans are available for eligible patients through Afterpay, Zip and Humm.
Talk with Our Coburg North Team
If you are considering general anaesthetic, we invite you to talk with our team. We can discuss whether it may suit you and what other options are available. We welcome patients from Coburg North, Fawkner, Preston, Brunswick, Reservoir and surrounding areas.
To arrange a consultation, please call (03) 9041 5301 or book online.
