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.
This procedure is recommended for very young children or patients that have difficulty cooperating with treatment in the office; an inhalation anesthetic is administered by a medical anesthesiologist in a surgery center or operating room environment and during this procedure all dental treatment, x-rays, and cleanings are provided.