Fully qualified specialist anaesthetists and anesthetic nurses safe and comfortable
Instructions for the day
- Fast from midnight if your procedure is in the morning
- Fast from 6am if your procedure is in the afternoon.
- You MUST have a responsible adult to take you home and stay with you for the remainder of the day/night. You will not be allowed to leave alone, drive yourself home or go home in a limo or taxi unescorted
payment related questions
The cost depends on the procedure length and complexity. We’ll provide an accurate quote in advance. Sedation for a typical procedure (like wisdom teeth) is significantly more affordable in-clinic compared to hospital settings.
- A specialist ANZCA-accredited anaesthesiologist
- An anaesthetic nurse or technician
- Oxygen supply and all intravenous anaesthetic drugs including analgesia medication
- Full monitoring and recovery care
- Emergency equipment on-site
- Pre-operative assessment and after care. It’s a comprehensive medical service designed for safety and comfort
Anaesthesia related (sedation)
It’s a medication delivered through a vein that makes you feel calm, relaxed, and sleepy during your dental procedure. You’re not fully asleep, but most patients remember little or nothing afterward.
- No food for 6 hours before
- Clear fluids (e.g., water, black tea/coffee) up to 2 hours before
- Avoid milk, juice with pulp, or alcohol
- Fast (as above)
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing (short sleeves preferred)
- Remove makeup, nail polish, and jewellery
- Organise transport and supervision for afterward
Anaesthesia Related (General anaesthesia)
A general anaesthetic (GA) is a combination of medicines used to keep you unconscious and pain free during an operation or procedure.
Medicines are given through a vein and/or as gases that you breathe in. A face mask and/or breathing tube may be used to support your breathing during the procedure.
No. A general anaesthetic keeps you unconscious so you will not feel, hear, or remember the procedure.
Your anaesthetic will be given by a specialist anaesthetist, a doctor with specialist training in anaesthesia.
General anaesthesia is very safe for most patients. Your anaesthetist will monitor you closely throughout the procedure.
Yes. You will be told when to have your last food and drink. It is important to follow these instructions to reduce the risk of vomiting and aspiration.
Most medicines should be continued and taken at the usual time with a sip of water. Some medicines, including blood thinning medicines, may require special instructions.
Common side effects are usually temporary and may include:
- Drowsiness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headache
- Sore or dry throat
- Dizziness
There are risks and complications with any anaesthetic. Serious complications are uncommon. Your individual risk depends on your health, age, and the type of procedure.
You will be monitored in the recovery area until you are fully awake. Pain relief and other medications will be provided as required.
Many procedures are performed as day surgery. You must have a responsible adult to take you home and stay with you overnight.
For at least 24 hours:
- Do not drive or operate machinery
- Do not drink alcohol
- Do not make important decisions or sign legal documents
Tell your anaesthetist if you have medical conditions, allergies, take medicines or supplements, smoke, drink alcohol, or have had problems with anaesthesia in the past.
Not having a general anaesthetic may mean your procedure cannot be performed. Please discuss options with your dentist.
