<p>General anaesthesia (GA) is an essential option for delivery of dental treatment, particularly amongst certain patient groups, such as young children or the very anxious. In fact, dental treatment is one of the most common reasons for a general anaesthetic in children, meaning the general dental practitioner (GDP) is highly likely to encounter patients requiring treatment under GA. It is therefore vital that all dentists (not just those treating patients under GA) are aware of the processes involved, including the relevant risks, to ensure patients are properly informed when they are referred for treatment. This is particularly so, as the referring dentist may be the first port of call for any patient queries.</p>