General Anesthesia
General Anesthesia for Dental Treatment in Arlington, VA
If dental visits make you anxious, or you need a complex procedure, you don’t have to grit your teeth through it. At Arlington Dental Center, we offer a range of dental anesthesia options, from simple numbing to full dental sedation, so you can get the care you need in comfort.
Not every dental practice offers in-house general anesthesia, but our team is proud to provide this additional service option for patients who prefer or need it for their treatments. Contact us today to learn more about our services and schedule with us!
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Your Dental Anesthesia Options
- Local anesthesia — This is the most common choice. As a trusted local anesthesia dentist, we numb only the area being treated, so you stay awake and alert but feel no pain. It’s used for fillings, crowns, and many simple extractions, and it wears off within a few hours.
- Inhaled Sedation — Nitrous oxide sedation helps you relax deeply while remaining responsive. Many patients remember little of the appointment afterward.
- General anesthesia — For full dental sedation, general anesthesia puts you completely to sleep. You won’t feel, hear, or remember the procedure. It’s often recommended for lengthy or complex surgeries, patients with severe dental anxiety or a strong gag reflex, and people with special needs who find it hard to sit still in the dental chair.
Is General Anesthesia Right for You?
During your consultation, we’ll review your medical history, medications, and comfort level. If general anesthesia is a good fit, we’ll give you clear instructions on fasting beforehand and arranging a ride home, so your day goes smoothly from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I go to an oral surgeon with an in-house anesthesiologist?
With a dedicated anesthesia provider on site, one professional focuses entirely on your sedation and monitoring while your dentist focuses on your procedure. Dr. Akhavan is our Lead Anesthesiologist at Arlington Dental Center and Del Ray Dental Center, and she is highly experienced when it comes to performing safe and effective sedation services.
When can I return to my normal routine after receiving general anesthesia?
Most patients feel groggy for the rest of the day and should plan to rest at home. You’ll need a responsible adult to drive you home, and you shouldn’t drive, operate machinery, or make important decisions for at least 24 hours post-treatment. Many people are cleared to return to work or school the next day, though healing from the dental procedure itself may take longer.
Is dental anesthesia safe?
When administered by trained professionals, like Dr. Akhavan, who carefully screen patients and monitor vital signs throughout treatment, dental anesthesia has an excellent safety record. Always share your full medical history and medication list with us so we can plan your care safely.
What procedures use anesthesia?
Nearly every dental procedure uses some form of anesthesia. Local anesthesia covers routine work like fillings and root canals, while nitrous oxide or general anesthesia is common for tooth removal, dental implants, multiple extractions, bone grafting, and full-mouth restorations.
Are there side effects of general anesthesia?
Side effects are usually mild and short-lived. They can include nausea, drowsiness, sore throat, dizziness, and temporary confusion. Our team will monitor you as you wake up and send you home with clear aftercare instructions. Call us if anything concerns you during your recovery.
Schedule Your Consultation
Don’t let fear or discomfort keep you from a healthy smile. Contact Arlington Dental Center today to discuss your dental anesthesia options and find the approach that makes treatment easier for you.
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