Is your child trying to avoid the dentist? Do not be surprised. Most children do suffer from dental anxiety. Your child might feel extreme stress and fear about sitting for long procedures. In scenarios like this, sedation can become your saving grace. As a concerned parent, you might worry about the safety of this procedure.
Read this blog to understand the different options for sedating your child and how it can help the dental care process.
Why Is Sedation Used In Pediatric Dentistry?
Here are the reasons why dentists often use sedation to treat young patients:
- Your children might feel nervous and scared before seeing the dentist. It will help reduce your child’s anxiety and keep them calm.
- Certain procedures, like extractions, cavity fillings, etc, might be uncomfortable and time-consuming. Being sedated will make their experience pain-free.
- If your child has sensory processing disorders, this procedure can help them feel comfortable during the treatment.
Positive experiences will help your child grow familiar with dental procedures.
What Types of Sedation Are Used For Children’s Dental Treatments?
Here are the different methods used in the sedation dentistry for kids in Sacramento:
Use of Laughing Gas
This is a mild form of sedation. Your child has to inhale it through a small mask placed over their mouth. Your child will go into a state of relaxation while being fully conscious and responsive. This process is very safe, and your child can resume their activities soon. The dentist might use it if your child is undergoing minor procedures.
Sedation With Pills
Your child will swallow a pill. It will immediately reduce their anxiety while keeping them conscious. Your child will feel drowsy but stay responsive to verbal commands. Monitor your child after the procedure till the effect wears off.
Sedation Through Veins
Intravenous sedation will deliver the medication directly into your child’s bloodstream through a small needle in their arm. The dentist can precisely control the levels. Your child might need it only for extremely complicated procedures. A trained anesthesiologist will monitor your child’s vitals.
Deep Sedation
This is required only for extensive dental work. If your child is really young or a special needs patient, it will keep your child unconscious and pain-free. After this form of sedation, your child might need some time to recover. Provide soft foods to your child for faster recovery.
Is Dental Sedation Safe For Your Child?
Worried about your child’s safety? Pediatric dentists will follow strict guidelines to keep your child safe. The professional will conduct evaluations to choose the right method for your child’s dental needs. Remember, only trained and certified professionals are allowed to perform the procedure.
You need to discuss all your queries and possible recovery time with the children’s dentist. You can prepare your child for sedation dentistry by following the necessary guidelines.
However, your child must meet the eligibility criteria for this procedure.
This is a safe and effective method to teach your child about the benefits of seeking timely dental care. A positive experience will change their perspective towards dental care. The practitioners will follow all the safety protocols to sedate your child. Follow the necessary steps to help them overcome the aftereffects.
Are you ready to solve your child’s dental issues? Contact us for a consultation!
