The use of general anesthesia to facilitate dental treatment.

General anesthesia can help the dental professional provide treatment to individuals who otherwise would be unable to receive dental care. State-mandated training, current anesthesia techniques, and adequate planning by the dentist make general anesthesia safe and effective in the private dental office. This article discusses the multiple benefits general anesthesia offers both the dentist and the patient. Suggestions are presented to facilitate the accessibility and utilization of general anesthesia for routine office dental care.