Visiting the dentist can be scary to a child. An unfamiliar place filled with so many unfamiliar people and loud noises! It’s enough to frighten many adults, too! So, how do you keep your little one calm? You may recall the assurance you felt if you previously received sedation from your dentist as an adult, but can a child safely withstand it?
Sedation dentistry is a perfectly safe option for children when the appropriate method is selected, the child’s health is carefully evaluated, and the sedation is administered and monitored by qualified professionals.
What is Pediatric Dental Sedation?
Sedation dentistry uses medication to help a child relax during dental treatment. Depending on the child’s age, health, anxiety level, and the procedure being performed, a pediatric dentist may recommend different levels of sedation.
Nitrous oxide, commonly called laughing gas, is one of the mildest options. Administered via a nasal mask, your child remains awake and able to communicate while feeling more relaxed. The effects wear off within minutes after they stop breathing it in, allowing them to continue throughout their day as they normally would.
On the other hand, general anesthesia will put your child all the way to sleep, making it especially useful for especially extensive procedures that take longer. That can understandably cause some parents to worry, but understand that the dentist and their team will closely monitor their sedation levels throughout treatment and adjust them as needed.
How is Safety Maintained?
Before recommending sedation, a pediatric dentist should review your child’s medical history, medications, allergies, and previous experiences with anesthesia or sedation. Be sure to provide complete and accurate information about your child’s health.
During treatment, your child’s vital signs and level of sedation should be monitored according to the type of sedation being used. The dental team should also be prepared to respond to potential complications.
Following pre- and post-treatment instructions is another important part of keeping your child safe. Depending on the type of sedation, your dentist may provide specific instructions about eating, drinking, medications, and transportation. For example, general anesthesiology will require that you take your kid home after treatment and keep an eye on them while they rest and recuperate.
Is Sedation Right for Every Child?
Sedation isn’t necessary for every dental appointment or every child. A pediatric dentist considers factors such as the child’s age, anxiety level, ability to cooperate, medical history, treatment needs, and the complexity of the procedure.
For some children, behavioral guidance and reassurance may be enough. For others, sedation can make necessary dental care possible when anxiety or other challenges would otherwise make treatment difficult.
It’s completely reasonable to have questions before your child’s dental procedure. Ask your pediatric dentist what type of sedation is being recommended, why it is appropriate, what risks are involved, and how your little tyke will be monitored. When performed by appropriately trained professionals using proper protocols, pediatric dental sedation can be a valuable tool for providing safe, comfortable dental care.
About the Author
Dr. Amar Singh is a Southampton pediatric dentist with nearly a decade of experience in his field. He earned his dental doctorate at the Howard University College of Dentistry and today is a board-certified pediatric dentist, the highest honor given out by the American Board of Pediatric Dentists. Dr. Singh can safely and effectively administer nitrous oxide sedation and general anesthesiology so your child can relax and get the care they need. Book your appointment through our website or by phone at (215) 874-3786.