Thanks to modern technology, dental treatments have become much more comfortable. However, for many patients, the "dentist's chair" can still be a source of serious anxiety. Classical treatment methods can sometimes be challenging, especially for adults with intense dental phobia (dentophobia), patients with a strong gag reflex, or pediatric patients with whom communication is difficult.

This is where General Anesthesia and Sedation methods come into play, making dental treatments stress-free for both the patient and the dentist.

What is the Difference Between General Anesthesia and Sedation?

These two concepts are often confused by our patients, but they differ in terms of application and consciousness level:

• Conscious Sedation: A state where the patient's consciousness is not completely shut down, but they are in deep relaxation. The patient can respond to commands (e.g., "open your mouth") and breathe on their own but does not feel sounds, vibrations, or pain during the procedure. When the procedure is over, the patient usually does not remember the treatment. It can be described as a "sleep-like state."

• General Anesthesia: A state of total unconsciousness, meaning full sleep. In this method, the patient feels and remembers nothing. It is generally preferred when multiple procedures need to be performed simultaneously or in cases where sedation would not be sufficient.

Who Are These Methods Suitable For?

These applications are necessary to maintain the quality of treatment and the patient's psychological health rather than being just a preference. They are usually applied in the following cases:

1. Dental Phobia: Adults who are extremely afraid of sitting in the dental chair.

2. Pediatric Patients: To prevent trauma in children who cannot be persuaded, communicated with, or are too young.

3. Individuals with Special Needs: Patients who cannot stay still in the chair due to physical or mental disabilities.

4. Extensive Surgeries: When it is desired to complete all treatments in a single session for long and difficult procedures like jaw surgery.

Safety Comes First: Where Should It Be Done?

General anesthesia and sedation procedures must strictly be performed in a fully equipped hospital environment under the supervision of an expert anesthesiologist. This is vital to minimize all possible risks and to monitor the patient's vital signs (pulse, blood pressure, oxygen level) instantly.

As PYS Dent, we do not leave our patients' safety to chance. Therefore, we perform all dental treatments to be carried out under general anesthesia and sedation in the operating rooms of Acıbadem Kayseri Hospital, one of the best-equipped health institutions in Kayseri.

How Does the Process Work?

Once the treatment decision is made, our patient is examined by an anesthesiologist, and necessary tests are conducted. After confirming that the patient's general health is suitable for the procedure, an appointment is scheduled. On the day of the procedure, the patient is safely put to sleep in the hospital environment, all dental treatments (fillings, root canals, extractions, etc.) are completed in a single session, and the patient wakes up with the entire process finished.

Remember, postponing dental health can lead to bigger problems in the future. With these opportunities offered by modern medicine, it is possible to achieve a healthy smile without fear and anxiety.