Patients & Families
Anesthesia Care for Patients & Families
Safe, Compassionate Care for Your Dental & Surgical Procedure
If you or a family member is preparing for a dental or surgical procedure that requires anesthesia, it’s normal to have questions about safety, comfort, and what to expect.
GMC Anesthesia provides professional anesthesia services for dental and surgical procedures, working closely with your dental provider to ensure a safe, comfortable experience from start to finish.
Our team focuses on one priority: your safety and peace of mind.
Who we are
Experienced Clinical Leadership
GMC Anesthesia is led by Gram M. Cotton, DNAP, MBA, CRNA, NSPM-C, APRN, an experienced nurse anesthesiologist with extensive training in office-based anesthesia, procedural sedation, and advanced patient monitoring.
Dr. Cotton founded GMC Anesthesia to provide dental and surgical practices with hospital-level anesthesia safety standards delivered in the office setting, allowing patients to receive high-quality care in a comfortable clinical environment.
GMC Anesthesia Focuses On:
- Patient Safety and Monitoring
- Evidence-Based Anesthesia Protocols
- Seamless Collaboration With Surgical Teams
- Reliable Anesthesia Coverage for Complex Procedures
This leadership and clinical expertise help ensure every procedure is supported by experienced anesthesia professionals.
Our team of board-certified CRNAs delivers the same monitoring standards used in hospital operating rooms — in a setting that’s much more comfortable for you.
Your safety is the only thing we’re focused on during your procedure.
What to expect
Before, during, and after your procedure
- Your anesthesia provider will review your medical history, medications, and allergies before the day of your procedure.
- You’ll receive specific fasting instructions — typically no food or drink after midnight the night before.
- Some medications may need to be adjusted or paused. We’ll communicate any changes directly.
- Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for a few hours afterward.
- You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions before the procedure begins.
A dedicated anesthesia professional is with you for the entire procedure — monitoring your heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and breathing continuously.
- ECG (heart rhythm monitoring)
- Pulse oximetry (oxygen levels)
- Capnography (breathing)
- Blood pressure monitoring
- Airway management equipment onsite
Most patients go home the same day. You’ll be monitored in the office during recovery until you’re stable and ready to be discharged safely.
- Grogginess and fatigue are normal and will fade over several hours.
- You’ll need someone to drive you home — do not drive yourself.
- Written post-procedure instructions will be provided before you leave.
- Most patients resume normal activities within 24 hours.
- If you have any concerns after you get home, call us directly.
Experienced Office-Based Anesthesia Care
Many dental and surgical procedures can safely be performed using office-based anesthesia, allowing patients to receive care in a familiar setting without the need for a hospital visit.
Benefits may include:
- Comfortable clinical environment
- Reduced stress for patients and families
- Efficient scheduling with your dental provider
- Continuous monitoring by trained anesthesia professionals
Our team works closely with dental and medical practices to provide safe and dependable anesthesia care.
Special situations
Anxiety, special needs & pediatric care
Dental and medical procedures can be stressful for many patients, particularly those with high anxiety or special healthcare needs. We coordinate closely with your dental provider to ensure every patient receives attentive, compassionate care.
Dental anxiety
It’s extremely common. Our team is experienced in working with patients who have significant procedural fear. You do not have to manage that fear alone.
Pediatric Patients
Our CRNAs are trained in pediatric anesthesia. Age-appropriate protocols, calm environment, and family communication throughout.
Special needs / neurodiverse
Individualized planning for patients with developmental differences, sensory sensitivities, or behavioral complexity.
Questions About Your Upcoming Procedure?
If you have questions before your appointment, our team is happy to help.
Patient FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Is anesthesia safe for dental procedures?
When administered by qualified anesthesia professionals using appropriate monitoring equipment and protocols, anesthesia is very safe for dental and oral surgery procedures.
Who provides the anesthesia during my procedure?
A trained anesthesia provider from GMC Anesthesia will administer and monitor anesthesia throughout the entire procedure.
Will I be monitored during the procedure?
Yes. Patients are continuously monitored using medical-grade equipment to ensure safety throughout the procedure.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery times vary depending on the type of anesthesia used and the procedure being performed. Your provider will give you specific recovery instructions.
Will I be fully asleep or just sedated?
It depends on what your procedure requires. Some patients receive IV sedation and remain relaxed but responsive. Others receive deep sedation or general anesthesia. Your anesthesia provider will review the safest option with you beforehand.
Does GMC accept insurance?
GMC operates as a fee-for-service provider and does not bill insurance directly. We provide a detailed superbill that you may submit to your insurance carrier for potential out-of-network reimbursement. Reimbursement varies by plan and is not guaranteed.
Can my child safely have anesthesia in a dental office?
Yes. When provided by pediatric-experienced anesthesia professionals, office-based anesthesia can be safely administered to children. GMC uses age-appropriate medications, monitoring, and recovery protocols.
Ready to prepare for your procedure?
Have questions before your procedure? GMC Anesthesia helps patients and families understand what to expect before, during, and after office-based anesthesia care. Review the appropriate patient forms or contact our team with questions before your appointment.
Medical Providers Form
Complete the form below to request a consultation.
Patients & Families Form
Use the form below to ask a question about your procedure.