General anaesthetic for children
When it makes sense – and how we handle it at Züri Zahni. My position as a paediatric dentist
By med. dent. Andrea Zimmermann
Sometimes treatment under general anaesthetic is the best way forward – particularly with very young children, anxious patients, or when a lot of work is needed. What matters to us is that this step is well considered and carried out safely.
The anaesthetic itself is supervised by an external, specialised anaesthetic team. They are sensitive professionals who work exclusively with children and know their craft with great calm and routine. While your child sleeps in the best of hands, we carry out the entire dental treatment efficiently and gently – all in one session.
Of course I am also there for you before and after the procedure – with clear guidance, child-friendly aftercare and a great deal of empathy.
At our Züri Zahni practice in Glattpark we never use a general anaesthetic lightly. But when it is necessary, we support you and your child with a great deal of experience, empathy and a reliable network of specialists.
When is a general anaesthetic an option?
There are situations in which treatment while awake is simply not possible or not reasonable for a child – for example when:
- several teeth have to be treated at the same time
- the child is very frightened or has had traumatic experiences
- the child is still very young and cooperation is difficult
- earlier attempts with nitrous oxide or distraction were not enough
In such cases a general anaesthetic can be an enormous relief – for the child, who is treated without fear, and for the parents, who know that everything is now happening safely and without stress.
Is a general anaesthetic dangerous?
I am asked this often – and it is an entirely fair question. The good news: thanks to modern anaesthetic procedures the risk today is very low. We work exclusively with an experienced external anaesthetic team specialised in children. These sensitive professionals understand their craft and make sure your child falls asleep gently and wakes up safely.
I would not recommend treatment under general anaesthetic if I were not completely convinced of its safety.
How does the treatment work?
Consultation & information
In a personal conversation I explain step by step what lies ahead – without any jargon, but with plenty of clarity and room for questions.
Medical assessment
The anaesthetic is administered by the specialist team – calmly, professionally and in a way that suits a child. While your child sleeps, I carry out all of the dental work in a single session. That way we avoid putting them through it more than once.
Day of treatment
The anaesthetic is administered by the specialist team – calmly, professionally and in a way that suits a child. While your child sleeps, I carry out all of the dental work in a single session. That way we avoid putting them through it more than once.
Waking up & aftercare
Your child is closely monitored after the procedure and can wake up near you. Naturally I also explain exactly what to watch out for at home. And if anything is unclear, I am always reachable.
My promise
As a mother and a dentist I know how important trust is – especially when a child’s health is at stake. That is why my aim is always: as little intervention as necessary, as much safety as possible. A general anaesthetic remains the last option for me – but when we choose it, we do so with conviction, care and a well-practised team.
Do you have questions?
I am happy to take the time for you. Arrange a consultation – so that together we can find the best way forward for your child.