IMPLANTATION UNDER GENERAL ANESTHESIA – PAIN AND DISCOMFORT FREE SOLUTION

Dental implantation under general anesthesia is the most effective analgesic

The most crucial point of this writing is that dental implantation under general anesthesia is the most convenient pain and discomfort-free solution for teeth replacement. However, it is also true that implantation under local anesthesia is also painless. After all, there are some differences between local and general anesthesia, which we will discuss later. Pre-appointment is completely common in healthcare. When implantation under general anesthesia is the subject, scheduling becomes more complicated due to the need to consult an anesthesiologist. We'll write about that later, but we already say that you can request an appointment or ask questions about anesthesia treatment on this page.

Things you need to know about dental implantation under general anesthesia
A dental implant is practically an artificial tooth root that can perfectly replace a natural tooth root. It is also a perfect replacement because it goes into the jaw bone, where the original teeth root is located. The implantologist typically inserts 8-10 implants per jawbone to determine precisely where, based on an on-site CT and X-ray, the implantologist takes before implantation.

Dental implantation under general anesthesia can be either a one-phase or a two-phase implant. Although there is a significant difference between the two types of implants, whether or not the implantation occurs under anesthesia is entirely indifferent. The one-phase Immediate loading implant implantation happens in a single phase, while conventional two-phase implant, as their name implies, happens in two steps. In the latter case, general anesthesia is recommended only during the implant base implantation in the first phase.

We have already mentioned in the introduction that dental implant implantation is not a painful procedure that would necessarily require general anesthesia. Implantations are performed under local anesthesia in 85% of cases and involve relatively little discomfort. We can say that the most inconvenient thing is to give the analgesic injection, but after that, the patient does not feel any pain, just some discomfort. That is not a painful feeling, but it is not pleasant either. Especially for those who have an unreasonable fear of dental treatment, it is an increased mental strain that can generate pain and discomfort.

Sure, implantation under general anesthesia is a 100% painless and stress-free intervention! It indeed comes at an additional cost, but in return for this, we avoid the needlestick injection of the analgesic injection and all the other inconveniences associated with the implantation. While still awake, the implantologist tells you how the procedure will be, introduces the anesthesiologist assistants, and assures you that there is nothing to worry about. Dental implantation is usually happening under local sedation and not general anesthesia.

Difference between moderate sedation and general anesthesia
The most important identity is that both serve the purpose of analgesia. Moderate sedation is a condition in which the patient is conscious, but all feelings of fear, pain, and tension disappear while simultaneously being able to communicate with the oral surgeon. Under moderate sedation, the anesthesiologist injects sedatives and analgesics and continuously monitors vital life functions. The patient feels that the implantation process is more straightforward and shorter in duration.

Another possible implant method is implantation under general anesthesia or deep sedation. Deep anesthesia is a whole-body pain relief in which the patient remains unconscious throughout the procedure. In case of specific health problems, or inability to cooperate caused by the fear of intervention, general anesthesia may be necessary. If for some reason, it is needed, we use this type of anesthesia the most when implanting dental implants. Of course, an anesthesiologist will perform deep sedation, during which, as needed, sedatives and analgesics are.

Are there any dangers of dental implantation under general anesthesia?
During professional anesthesia, the patient does not feel pain or remember the surgery; however, within a short time after implantation, his self-consciousness and vital functions such as consciousness, swallowing, speech, and so on return.

Drugs used during anesthesia to cause unconsciousness, muscle relaxation, and pain relief may have individual-dependent side effects, although these are usually insignificant. According to a study of 113,000 surgeries, 10% of people who underwent deep anesthesia experienced some after-effect.

Possible side effects of deep sedation
Even with the utmost care, unforeseen complications can occur, but the trained anesthesiologist knows the solution. The side effects that may occur are:
Dry throat - One of the most common side effects is dryness and scratching in the throat. That is treatable with a special gargling fluid administered orally.
Nausea - In a tiny percentage of cases, nausea and vomiting may occur after implantation. As prevention, the patient receives an antiemetic before and during the operation.
Trembling, chills - General anesthesia can occur because of such a side effect. That is preventable by warmed infusion and covering.
Headache, confusion - Some patients complain of headaches and confusion. However, this is temporary and will go away on its own quickly, but it can also be treatable with medication.
Shortness of breath - Very rarely, but intermittent shortness of breath may occur. With proper techniques and medications, if needed, this is also treatable.

We have explained above what pain relief options are available and how the implantation under general anesthesia goes. It was about moderate sedation, general anesthesia, and their differences. Finally, we discussed the possible side effects and how to treat them. In conclusion, anyone who wants to rule out one hundred percent of the pain and discomfort associated with dental implantation should choose general anesthesia, available at our dental clinic.

In our Articles section, you can find more information about dentures, implants, and implantation methods. If you have an opinion about this article, let us know about it in the Comment section below. If you have any questions, please get in touch with us.
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