Anaesthetic Options for Dental Surgery

Your dental surgery can be performed using different anaesthetic options, depending on the complexity of your procedure, medical history, and your preference.

  • Local anaesthetic – Comfortably numbs the area while you remain fully awake. This is suitable for simpler procedures.

  • Sedation – Administered in addition to local anaesthetic to help you feel deeply relaxed and comfortable during the procedure, with little or no memory of the treatment.

  • General anaesthetic – You are completely asleep for the procedure. This option is typically used for more complex cases or for patients who prefer not to be aware of the surgery.

Your Oral Surgeon will discuss these options with you and recommend the most appropriate approach to ensure your comfort and safety.

People washing hands in a sink at a water faucet, with soap lather.

Preparation for Treatment

Local Anaesthetic

  • Treatment is carried out at the practice

  • Ensure you eat a light meal before the procedure

  • Ensure you take all prescribed medications as per normal. Do not stop any medication unless directed by your surgeon.

  • You can drive home after the appointment.

Twilight Sedation

  • Treatment is carried out at the practice

  • The sedationist will contact you to discuss the sedation and the necessary paperwork

  • You must FAST before treatment under Twilight Sedation. This means no eating any food at least 6 hours before and no drinking any water 2 hours before surgery.

  • You will need a responsible adult to drive you home

General Anaesthetic

  • Treatment is carried out at the privatehospital

  • Ensure you complete the online admissionform for the hospital prior to the date of surgery

  • The anaesthetist will contact you to discuss the anaesthesia

  • You must FAST before treatment under General Anaesthetic. This means no eating any food at least 6 hours before and no drinking any water 2 hours before surgery.

  • You will need a responsible adult to drive you home

A woman holding a glass of water and a pill near her mouth, preparing to swallow.

On the day of procedure, our team will provide you with

  • Detailed and specific post-operative instructions

  • Script for after-care medications

  • Medical certificate if required

  • Emergency contact details

Post-operative review

Our team will review you to ensure you are healing without complication. This will be back in the clinic that you had your original consultation. There is no cost for your review appointments.