The use of general anesthesia for dental work in children is sometimes necessary in order to provide safe, efficient, and predictable care. The general anesthetic is given to your child by a specialist (anesthesiologist) and ONLY after the child has been thoroughly screened by a physician. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recognizes the need for general anesthesia in certain situations where challenges relating to the child’s age, behavior, medical conditions, developmental disabilities, intellectual limitations, or special treatment needs may warrant it. Pediatric dentists are, by virtue of training and experience, qualified to recognize the indications for such an approach and to render such care. Your pediatric dentist and his staff will discuss all the necessary steps that must be taken in order to promptly and safely complete your child’s dental treatment after this treatment option has been chosen. Like any procedure in which a child’s conscious state is altered, there are some risks involved. The main risks (serious complications) associated with an oral sedation include, but are not limited to: Allergic reaction, respiratory arrest, cardiac arrest, and death. Statistically, the chances of a serious complication are similar to those of being involved in a life-threatening motor vehicle accident. Please make sure you fully understand as a parent or legal guardian all the risks involved with this procedure. Also review the instructions that you must follow the day before the procedure.