Root Canal Treatment
Removes infected or inflamed pulp from inside a tooth, then cleans, shapes and seals the root canals so the natural tooth can be kept. Usually one to three visits; a crown is often recommended afterwards.
Sedation and general anaesthesia
Medically reviewed by Dr Matthew Sng ·
Sedation options for anxious patients and longer procedures, ranging from inhalation and intravenous sedation to general anaesthesia for selected cases.
At Advanced Dental, our dentists ensure a comfortable experience through sedation & general anaesthesia, which consists of various anaesthetic options.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide is administered through a custom nosepiece to produce a calming effect, reducing fear and anxiety, enabling patients to more comfortably tolerate injections or other potentially uncomfortable procedures. The effects wear off almost instantly once the procedure is done.
Local Anaesthesia
Local anaesthetic is administered via an injectable to impart a numbing effect that lasts for up to 60 minutes. It is injected into the part of the mouth that requires treatment. Patients won't experience any sedation or altered consciousness from local anaesthesia.
IV Sedation
For longer or more complicated procedures, IV (intravenous) sedation is used to induce a state of deeper relaxation. It is carried out by a certified anaesthetist who will monitor the patient throughout the duration of the procedure.
General Anaesthesia
General anaesthesia is administered via an IV drip and it affects the entire body and produces a state of unconsciousness. This is used for lengthy, extensive oral surgeries that might cause more pain than local anaesthesia can address.
Who it's for
Anxious patients, children, those with a strong gag reflex, or longer and more complex procedures. A medical history and assessment decide which option is appropriate — inhalation sedation, intravenous sedation, or general anaesthesia for selected cases.
Time and visits
Sedation is given for the length of the procedure; recovery in the clinic afterwards is usually short. General anaesthesia is arranged in an appropriate facility with more recovery time.
Recovery and aftercare
After sedation you will feel drowsy for a while and should be accompanied home and rest for the day, avoiding driving and important decisions. The team gives specific instructions for your option.
Risks and considerations
Sedation and anaesthesia are generally safe when assessed and monitored, but carry some risk, which is why your medical history, medications and fitness are reviewed beforehand and you are monitored throughout.
Common questions
Is dental anaesthesia safe?
Dental anaesthesia is safe. Dentists carefully evaluate patients' medical histories to choose the most appropriate type and dosage.
Can I choose sedation or general anaesthesia for the surgery?
Local anaesthesia is used for dental surgery. Sedation may be considered after an assessment. General anaesthesia is arranged in a day-surgery operating theatre with an anaesthetist. Your dentist will discuss suitability, location and preparation with you.
Does local anaesthesia hurt?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the local anaesthesia injection. The needles used are very fine, and the procedure is usually quick. Your dentist may also offer numbing options to ensure your comfort.
What is dental anaesthesia, and why is it used?
Local anaesthesia numbs an area while you remain awake. Sedation helps you relax, and general anaesthesia makes you unconscious. The suitable option depends on your medical history and planned treatment.
How is local anaesthesia administered in dentistry?
Local anaesthesia is typically injected near the treatment site via a small needle. Topical anaesthetics may be applied beforehand to numb the area where the injection will be given.
All 7 questions
What are the different types of dental anaesthesia?
Common types include local anaesthesia (numbing a specific area), general anaesthesia (inducing temporary unconsciousness), and sedation (relaxing and calming the patient).
Can I choose general anaesthesia/sedation for the tooth extraction?
Discuss anxiety and anaesthetic options with your dentist before treatment. Sedation requires an assessment and appropriate staffing and facilities. General anaesthesia is arranged in a day-surgery operating theatre with an anaesthetist; it is not available at every clinic.
Children’s dentistry
Check-ups, preventive care and treatment for infants, children and teens, paced to each child’s needs.