If your child fears the dentist, they may benefit from sedation dentistry. This field calms their nerves so they have a more comfortable dental treatment. Still, you might worry its sedatives could harm your little one. After all, is dental sedation safe for kids? Well, your Marietta pediatric dentist is here with the answer: dental sedatives are perfectly safe for youngsters. As proof, here’s a summary of why dental sedation works well on kids and how to make it smoother.
Sedation is Perfectly Safe for Kids
When done by a qualified pediatric dentist, sedation won’t hurt your child. It’ll improve treatment so they have healthier teeth and gums. To see why, consider the types of sedation listed below:
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Nitrous oxide – also known as laughing gas – is a very safe sedative for anxious children. All it does is help them relax and produce mild feelings of euphoria. As such, it’ll leave them alert enough to communicate with the dentist.
More crucially, nitrous oxide has no lasting side effects. It wears off almost as soon as the child stops inhaling it. Therefore, they’ll quickly be ready to move on after the procedure ends.
IV Sedation
Admittedly, IV sedation for kids carries a few risks. It’ll almost certainly put your child to sleep, meaning they may not breathe well on their own. To compensate, though, a qualified professional will be present throughout treatment. This individual monitors your child’s heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and more. By doing so, they make sure your little one stays safe until the procedure is over.
How to Make a Child’s Sedation Smoother
Dental sedation for kids is safe, but you can always make it smoother. To that end, consider using the following tips:
- Give the Dentist Relevant Details – If possible, tell the dentist about any prescriptions or medications your child is taking. Doing so lets them adjust the sedation process accordingly.
- Prepare Your Child Beforehand – You want your little one to have the best possible sedation experience. So, don’t give them solid foods before treatment. It’s also a good idea to dress them in loose-fitting clothing.
- Apply Proper Aftercare – Monitor your child after the treatment. For example, give them soft foods like lukewarm soup so they won’t feel post-procedure aches. Similarly, ensure they stay hydrated by drinking water.
Ultimately, dental sedation really is safe for kids. That being the case, assess your dental provider’s sedative options for your child’s next appointment.
About the Practice
Woodland Pediatric Dentistry is based in Marietta, GA. Led by the amazing Dr. Sheh Vahid, our practice offers the best in stress-free pediatric oral care. We thus perform top-notch dental checkups, restoration treatments, and even sedation services for kids of all ages. Our team is even equipped to handle your child’s dental emergencies. For more information or to book a visit, you can reach us on our website or by phone at (678)-498-2878.