If your child is too anxious to sit still during their dental appointment or if they need a more complex procedure, Dr. Mitseh Zala may recommend sedation. While a lot of parents get scared when they hear the word "sedation," The truth is that sedation dentistry is generally safe for kids. It's a way to ensure that your child will stay calm and have a positive experience while in the dentist's chair.
Let us explain how sedation dentistry works and why it's safe for your child.
One of the most common forms of sedation used in pediatric dentistry is nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas. This is a mild sedative that your child will inhale through a mask placed over the nose. Laughing gas can help your child relax and feel more comfortable during dental procedures.
The advantages of laughing gas is that it's fast-acting, and the effects wear off quickly. This means that your child can resume their normal activities soon after the procedure.
Intravenous (IV) sedation is a deeper form of sedation that is administered through a vein directly into the bloodstream. This form of sedation is suited for children who are highly anxious or who require longer or more complex procedures.
During IV sedation, your child will be in a highly calm state but still conscious so that they can respond to the dentist's instructions.
General anesthesia is the deepest form of sedation. It's only recommended for the most complex procedures or for children who are unable to cooperate due to age, developmental disabilities, or medical conditions.
Your child will be completely unconscious and unable to respond to any stimulation. This form of sedation requires the use of a breathing tube to maintain proper oxygenation.
While sedation dentistry can be safe for children, it is important for parents to understand the risks involved and to choose a dentist who is experienced in pediatric sedation.
Parents should also make sure to follow all pre- and post-operative instructions carefully to ensure their child's safety and comfort. This includes fasting requirements, transportation plans, and post-operative care instructions.
When choosing a pediatric dentist, make sure to look for a dentist who is experienced in sedation dentistry and who has the necessary training and certifications.
You should get all the information you need about the type of sedation that will be used, the risks involved, and the dentist's experience with sedating children. It is important to choose a dentist who is patient, kind, and able to communicate well with children to help minimize anxiety and discomfort during the dental procedure.
Sedation dentistry can be a safe and effective way to help children manage anxiety and discomfort during dental procedures. But, it's paramount that the dentist who administers the sedation is highly experienced and has a team of professionals on their side.
You can count on all that with the amazing team at Little Smiles of Eastvale. If you have more questions about sedation dentistry don't hesitate to get in touch.
