Dental FAQs

Yes. General anesthesia is very safe when administered by trained professionals. At Sleepy Smile Dental, it is always performed by a board-certified anesthesiologist in a monitored and controlled setting. We follow strict safety protocols as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD).

• Your child cannot sit still
• They have severe dental anxiety
• They need extensive dental work
• Previous dental visits were unsuccessful

We will provide detailed pre-operative instructions, including when your child should stop eating or drinking. You will also have a consultation with the anesthesiologist to review medical history and discuss the anesthesia plan.

The length of the procedure depends on the number and type of treatments needed. On average, most general anesthesia appointments take 1 to 2 hours, followed by a recovery period.

No pain is felt during the procedure. After waking up, your child may feel groggy or slightly uncomfortable. We provide post-operative pain relief instructions and medication if needed to ensure a smooth recovery.

Your child will be monitored in a recovery area until they wake up. Most children feel sleepy or slightly nauseous but recover fully within a few hours. Normal eating and activity can usually resume by the next day.

You’ll be with your child during pre-operative preparation and in recovery after the procedure. For safety reasons, parents are not allowed in the operating room while anesthesia is administered and treatment is performed.

Coverage for general anesthesia varies depending on your insurance provider and plan. We can help you check your benefits and guide you through any paperwork or pre-approvals needed.

We understand your concerns, and we’re here to help. Our team will walk you through the entire process, answer all your questions, and make sure you feel confident and reassured every step of the way.