Who needs General Anesthesia?
Caries (cavities) do not always have to be restored. If it is early and still affects only the enamel surface, it can be reversed with better food clearance (timely brushing) and topical fluoride treatments. Advanced caries through the enamel is irreversible and should be restored due to the possibility of dental pain, infection, and early tooth loss. Children that have caries that are irreversible, must have their caries treated. The child that needs dental treatment, but cannot tolerate it in the dental office most likely requires general anesthesia to complete the treatment. • Toddlers with nursing caries or multiple caries • Older children who are unable to tolerate in-office treatment • Children with special needs autism, cerebral palsy, various syndromes, etc.
