Experience Comprehensive Care with General Anesthesia Sedation Dentistry at Maring & Johnson
At Maring & Johnson Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center, situated in the vibrant heart of downtown Seattle, WA, we understand the importance of providing a comfortable and supportive environment for every patient. For those who experience anxiety surrounding dental procedures, our option for general anesthesia sedation dentistry offers a solution that combines comfort with expert care. This ability to provide general anesthesia in-office reflects our team’s extensive training, experience, and commitment to delivering comprehensive oral surgery options.
If you experience dental anxiety, contact our Seattle dentist today at 206-343-7500. Our anesthesia team is here to guide you through every step, ensuring your comfort and safety as we work to enhance your oral health.
What is General Anesthesia Sedation Dentistry?
General anesthesia is a method of sedation that induces a state of unconsciousness during dental procedures, as opposed to local anesthesia which is used to numb a specific area. Unlike other forms of sedation, such as nitrous oxide or IV sedation, general anesthesia allows patients to be completely unaware of their surroundings, providing a profound level of relaxation and pain relief. Patients are closely monitored throughout their experience, ensuring safety and comfort at every stage of treatment.
The administration of general anesthesia can be particularly beneficial for patients undergoing complex surgical procedures, where a deep level of sedation is required. Patients may receive anesthesia medicines through inhaled gases, intravenous medication, or a combination of both, depending on their individual needs and the procedure being performed.

Unique Patient Care Approach at Maring & Johnson
At Maring & Johnson, we pride ourselves on delivering a holistic approach to patient care. Our comprehensive treatment philosophy ensures all patients receive individualized attention, enhancing comfort and satisfaction.
Our practice integrates the expertise of oral surgeons and a periodontist, enabling us to approach dental issues from multiple perspectives. Whether you’re seeking dental implants, wisdom tooth removal, or advanced oral surgery, our team is committed to providing the highest standards of care.
Our facility adheres to the strictest safety protocols to guarantee a seamless experience from start to finish. We invest in state-of-the-art technology and continually update our practices in line with the latest research in dentistry and anesthesia, thereby reinforcing our dedication to patient safety and comfort. Explore our pre-procedure checklist for general anesthesia.
Benefits of General Anesthesia Sedation Dentistry
Choosing general anesthesia for your dental procedure can offer several distinct advantages:
- Complete Relaxation: General anesthesia eliminates anxiety and discomfort, allowing patients to undergo extensive or invasive procedures without any awareness of the treatment.
- Controlled Environment: Our team closely monitors vital signs and anesthesia levels throughout the procedure, ensuring patient safety at all times.
- Comprehensive Treatment Options: General anesthesia enables dentists to perform complex procedures in a single visit, minimizing the need for multiple appointments.
- Amnesia Effect: Many patients reported a lack of memory regarding the procedure, which can ease fears associated with returning to the dental office.

Things to Consider Before Choosing General Anesthesia
While general anesthesia can enhance comfort during dental procedures, it’s essential to weigh the considerations if you’re considering this option.
- Risks and Complications: Just like any medical procedure, general anesthesia carries potential risks. These can include allergic reactions, respiratory issues, or complications arising from pre-existing medical conditions like high blood pressure. However, with proper assessment and monitoring, such risks are significantly minimized.
- Post-Operative Effects: Upon waking, patients may feel groggy or disoriented. It is crucial to arrange for someone to drive you home afterward, as coordination may be impaired.
- Communication with Your Dentist: Open communication regarding your medical history, current medications, and any concerns is vital to ensuring you are a suitable candidate for general anesthesia.
The Distinct Difference: General Anesthesia vs. IV Sedation
While both general anesthesia and intravenous (IV) sedation are used to enhance patient comfort during dental procedures, there are important distinctions between the two methods:
Level of Consciousness: General anesthesia results in complete unconsciousness, making it necessary for patients to be given a breathing tube. In contrast, IV sedation keeps patients in a state of conscious yet relaxed awareness, allowing them to respond to requests from their dental team during the procedure.
- Duration and Recovery: The effects of general anesthesia may take longer to wear off compared to IV sedation, which generally has a quicker recovery time, allowing patients to resume their activities sooner.
- Scope of Use: General anesthesia is often reserved for more complex surgical procedures, such as advanced oral surgeries or treatments that require extensive care. IV sedation, however, can be suitable for less invasive treatments and may be used for patients who are uneasy but do not require the deep sedation of general anesthesia.
By weighing your options carefully and discussing your preferences with our team, you can decide on the best sedation method that meets your needs.