Sedation dentistry enables patients, both children and adults, to get the dental care they need by numbing pain, soothing dental anxiety, and providing a relaxing experience. However, many parents have concerns about the safety of sedation dentistry for kids. Here’s what you should know about sedation dentistry and why it’s safe when administered by a trained dentist.
What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is an important part of both general and children’s dentistry. It involves the use of various sedatives to relax the patient to various degrees, improving their experience and making otherwise difficult treatments a breeze.
There are several different types of sedation often used in children’s dentistry. Nitrous oxide, also called laughing gas, is among the most common and most mild. It is inhaled through a mask and provides instant calm. The other benefit of this type of sedation is that it wears off quickly, so there are no lasting effects.
Oral sedation provides a stronger, but still conscious, level of sedation. This is often provided in pill form and is taken prior to the appointment. IV sedation offers an even deeper level of sedation, where the child is typically still responsive but is in a very relaxed state.
Sedation dentistry is often used to deal with dental anxiety. Extreme fear of the dentist can make even simple treatments a grueling experience. In other cases, a very long or complex procedure could be too much, even for a child who hasn’t shown signs of dental anxiety. Children with special needs may also require sedation dentistry to undergo procedures safely and comfortably.
Safety Measures in Sedation Dentistry for Kids
Your child’s dentist will implement a variety of key safety measures during any application of sedation dentistry. First, they’ll carry out a detailed evaluation before deciding to move forward with sedation. That includes reviewing your child’s medical history to identify any potential risks.
Monitoring plays a key role during any sedation dentistry procedure. Your child’s vital signs and oxygen levels are closely watched throughout. In the case of nitrous oxide or IV sedation, the level of sedation is carefully controlled and adjusted throughout the procedure.
Most importantly, sedation dentistry is only administered by a dentist with the specific training and experience to do so safely. Your child’s dentist knows how to use sedation properly and monitor your child throughout the procedure.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry for Children
Sedation dentistry provides a variety of benefits. It reduces anxiety and fear, providing a comfortable experience. This also helps build trust over time so your child will be less concerned about visiting the dentist.
Your child will enjoy a more comfortable procedure, and the dentist and their team can carry out the treatment more efficiently. Reducing your child’s movements prevents potential issues and lets the dentist carry out the procedure more quickly.
Going through a long and complex procedure without sedation can be a negative experience for your child. This could leave them feeling more anxious and fearful of the dentist, potentially stopping them from getting the care they need in the future. Sedation dentistry prevents this from happening.
Potential Risks and How They Are Managed
While sedation dentistry is considered safe, there are potential risks that must be managed. Some mild side effects are common, such as nausea and drowsiness; however, they typically wear off within a few hours.
Your dentist will give you strict pre- and post-sedation care instructions. These usually include a period of time when your child shouldn’t eat before the procedure and potential signs to watch out for afterward. It is critical that you follow these instructions, and don’t hesitate to ask additional questions if you have any.
The dentist will carefully determine the precise dose for your child based on their weight, age, and other factors. This ensures that the proper level of sedation is achieved. The dentist and their team are also trained in the appropriate emergency protocols to protect your child in the case of adverse reactions or other complications.
How to Prepare Your Child for Sedation Dentistry
You can make the process go as smoothly as possible by preparing your child ahead of time. Make sure that your child knows what to expect before, during, and after the appointment.
Stick to simple explanations, such as that they might feel sleepy or strange for a while, and assure them that it will wear off. Highlight the importance of sedation dentistry to help keep them comfortable while getting the dental care they need to protect their smile.
Find Out More About Pediatric Sedation Dentistry
If your child has a history of dental anxiety or is facing a particularly long or complex dental procedure, talk with the team at Metro East Dental Care about sedation dentistry. We can provide personalized advice and find a solution that works to provide a comfortable experience for your child.
We’re your kids’ dentist near Granite City. We offer a full range of dental treatments, so reach out today to see how we can help.
