Dental sedation is commonly used to alleviate dental anxiety and discomfort during lengthy procedures, for additional pain relief, or for patients with sensitive gag reflexes. While it is typically used for adults, parents may wonder if sedation dentistry is a safe option for their children. Keep reading as we discuss the safety and benefits of sedation dentistry for children, offering insight into how it can help them feel more comfortable during their dental visits.
So, Is Sedation Dentistry Safe for Children?
Sedation dentistry is a safe and effective method for alleviating anxiety in patients who experience fear or nervousness during dental appointments. This approach is suitable for patients of any age and can provide the necessary dental care to maintain a healthy and functional smile.
In 2019, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatrics revised their guidelines for administering general anesthesia or deep dental sedation to children. These guidelines now require that two individuals, a dentist or oral surgeon and a dentist anesthesiologist or certified registered nurse anesthetist, be present in the treatment room throughout the procedure.
These updated requirements provide an additional layer of protection for young patients. This also allows for quick administration of advanced life support measures in case of emergencies.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
The type of sedation offered to a child depends on several factors such as their medical history, specific needs, the dental procedure, and the severity of their anxiety. The sedation options may include:
- General anesthesia – General anesthesia is a form of sedation that is typically reserved for more extensive dental procedures or for patients who have severe dental anxiety or special needs. It is administered through an IV and causes the patient to become unconscious, completely unaware of the dental procedure being performed.
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) – A mask will be placed over your child’s nose to administer nitrous oxide and oxygen, which is a fast-acting and minimally invasive form of dental sedation that can help them relax. Children may need laughing gas if they are anxious, have had a negative dental experience in the past, have difficulty sitting still, do not respond well to numbing medication, have sensitive teeth or a sensitive gag reflex, or need to undergo a lengthy procedure.
- Oral conscious sedation – For young children who are highly anxious or have difficulty cooperating during dental appointments, oral conscious sedation is a safe way for them to receive the necessary treatment. This method involves taking medication before the procedure to dull their senses, keeping them calm throughout the treatment while remaining awake and conscious, and it’s not unusual for them to fall asleep during the visit.
About the Practice
Looking for answers about the safety of sedation dentistry for your child? Look no further than Surf’s Up Pediatric Dentistry, where their expert team is dedicated to making dental appointments comfortable and stress-free for little ones. They offer a variety of sedation options for children, and their experienced staff will work with you to determine the best course of treatment for your child’s unique needs. You can schedule an appointment or learn more about the services offered by Surf’s Up Pediatric Dentistry by calling their Papillion office at (402) 773-7873 or visiting their website.