Last Updated on March 12, 2024 by admin
Sedation dentistry for kids may cause some parents to panic. But considering that children, even older children, are afraid of the dentist, sedation might be worth considering.
But is sedation dentistry safe for kids and what should you, as a parent or guardian, be concerned about? These are questions worth asking.
If you’re curious about sedation dentistry and how it relates to children, then keep reading!
Table of Contents
Sedation Dentistry for Kids: What is It?
Sedation is a method that’s used to relax patients when they’re anxious. It’s different from anesthesia in that it doesn’t put you directly to sleep. Your child will be aware enough to answer questions and aware of their surrounding. There are a few different forms of sedation: oral, nitrous oxide, and IV sedation.
Oral sedation requires your child to take a pill that relaxes them. Nitrous oxide, otherwise known as laughing gas, is breathed in through a mask and immediately relaxes the child. IV sedation is administered through a needle in the hand.
In some severe cases, dentists may recommend general anesthesia to put your child to sleep, but your dentist will not recommend or follow through without your approval and discussion.
How Safe is Sedation for Kids?
Generally speaking, sedation dentistry for kids is very safe. However, it does come with risks.
One of the best ways to ensure that you get quality care is to find a dentist who is skilled and licensed in administering sedation. If not, according to the American Pediatric Academy, if the dentist is not licensed, there should be a medical professional who is in the room with them at all times.
Your dentist monitors your child’s vitals the entire time and you will be notified if there are any problems. You should also provide accurate medical information for your child so the staff can prepare.
Questions You Should Ask
The Pediatric dentist services should anticipate and welcome the questions you have about sedation dentistry. If you don’t know what you should ask, here are a few questions to get you started.
- How long to expect sedation to last?
- What to expect after sedation
- What method of sedation do you use?
- What are the side effects of the particular sedation?
- What are the risks of sedation
- What problems should you look for
- Who is performing the sedation
- What are the qualifications of the dentist working with your child?
Before you speak to the dentist, write down a list of questions that you think are important to your child’s situation. Also, ask the dentist what else you should know or anything you may have missed.
Even when sedation is safe, it may not be the best-case scenario for your child. Speak with the dentist to consider all the possibilities for your child when it comes to keeping them calm during dental care.
Sedation Dentistry for Kids
When it comes to sedation dentistry for kids, it’s important to be well-informed. Your dentist can work with you to provide the best possible care for your child to keep both of you calm.
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