Is it a challenge to get your child in the car and to the dentist’s office? Do they cry, grow nervous, or become fearful? Regardless of why these responses occur, visiting the dentist should never be a troublesome event for your child. This is why many dentists offer sedation dentistry. But is it safe for your child to receive? Keep reading to discover why you and your child have no reason to be concerned when preparing to receive dental sedation.
What Kinds of Sedation Are Available?
There are generally three types of dental sedation available: nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation.
Nitrous oxide is the mildest option and is commonly known as laughing gas. Its effects work quickly to help your child relax as they inhale through a nasal mask. Within minutes, they will feel comfortable and euphoric. Once treatment is complete, the mask will be removed, and your child will be free to resume regular activity.
Oral conscious sedation is slightly more powerful and is recommended if your child experiences moderate dental anxiety or requires multiple treatments to be performed in a single visit. It is administered via a prescribed pill that is to be taken before their appointment. They will enter a deep state of relaxation and remain unbothered by their visit. The effects can take time to wear off, so resting for the remainder of the day is recommended.
IV sedation is the strongest option and is generally provided to children with extreme anxiety or who need complex, extensive dental care. It is administered via an IV in the hand or arm, with the medication quickly entering the bloodstream. Your child will remain fully at ease and is unlikely to remember anything from their appointment.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe for Kids?
You can trust that any of the above-mentioned methods will be safe for your child as long as a sedation dentist for children is administering it. They will require a scheduled consultation before agreeing to provide any sedation to your child, as this ensures their safety throughout the process.
The dentist will inquire about their overall health and any medications they may be taking. Once they have all the necessary information, they can decide whether dental sedation is a possibility.
Keeping your child safe and comfortable during their visit is the dentist’s priority, so if they are recommended to receive any form of sedation, trust that the most qualified hands will be there to administer it.
About the Author
As a board-certified pediatric dentist, Dr. Tamara Robison brings more than 30 years of experience to Beachside Smiles Pediatric Dentistry. Her extensive training and expertise make her a reliable professional who can provide safe sedation dentistry to young patients in Satellite Beach. Whether it’s nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, or IV administration, you can trust that your child is in good hands. Visit our website or call (321) 773-8578 to schedule an appointment to discuss whether your child is a qualified candidate.