Kids Hospital Dentistry

General Anesthesia

Anesthetic Dentist Appointments

General Anesthesia

General Anesthesia, often referred to as “being put to sleep” or “sleep dentistry,” is a medical procedure that renders your child completely asleep in a pain-free environment, allowing for the safe provision of dental diagnostics and treatment. Treatment is completed in a hospital or surgical center setting and conducted as ‘outpatient’ surgery, meaning that the patient is usually able to go home a few hours after the procedure is finished. Dental treatment under general anesthesia is an effective way to provide care to apprehensive children, children too young to be able to sit in the dental chair for treatment, and children or adolescents with special health care needs.

Understanding General Anesthesia

The general anesthesia used when completing dental treatment is the same as that used in procedures like the placement of ear tubes or having tonsils removed. The choice to have dental treatment for your child under general anesthesia involves the consideration of many factors and can only be decided by you and your dentist together after a thorough exam has been completed. While the assumed risks can be greater than those of treatment in the office or with the use of nitrous oxide, the benefits have significant positive effects on the quality of life for these children as well as their families. The use of general anesthesia is only suggested for a child when the benefits far outweigh the risks of this treatment.

Our Partner Hospitals

Summerland Health Centre (SHC)

Operating Room
Booking Department

Kelowna General Hospital (KGH)

Operating Room
Booking Department

Kids Hospital Dentistry

Arrival & Check-In

Our team will provide your needed instructions for fasting, what to bring, paperwork, etc., so that you feel prepared for your appointment.
Kids Hospital Dentistry

During the Procedure

Your child will be monitored by a hospital team to ensure the utmost safety. Most procedures last approximately 60–90 minutes.
Kids Hospital Dentistry

Aftercare & Recovery

Your child may be drowsy, but in most cases, you can anticipate a full recovery in 24 hours. We provide post-op instructions to support a healthy recovery.
Kids Hospital Dentistry

Going Home

Parents may accompany their child as they wake up. Most families return home the same day, with an understanding of the expected healing process.

Are You A Dentist Or Pediatrician
Referring A Patient For Hospital-Based Care?

Our secure referral form makes the process quick and easy. Please use our helpful links or reach out directly with any questions about our referral process.