Is Dental Sedation Safe for Kids?

Is Dental Sedation Safe for Kids?

At Sunflower Pediatric Dentistry, we know how to make our little patients feel comfortable while we examine their teeth. Even though we've created a friendly environment and our dentists are truly kind and passionate, sometimes, dental sedation may be the only option for a child to receive the treatment they need. 

This may be the case if your little one is extremely anxious because of past negative experiences or has special needs that make it harder to sit still during treatment. We may also recommend sedation if your child needs a more complex treatment that will require them to sit still for a longer period.

But, is sedation even safe for small kids? 

The answer is yes, but let us tell you more! 

Is Dental Sedation Safe for Kids

What to Know About Dental Sedation for Kids

Dental sedation will help your child feel relaxed and receive the treatment they need. Different types of sedation can be used in pediatric dentistry:

  • Laughing gas: Nitrous oxide, often known as "laughing gas," is a mild sedative that will help children relax. They remain awake and able to respond during the procedure and the effects wear off quickly once the mask is removed.
  • Moderate Sedation: In this case, we use an oral sedative, like a pill, taken before the procedure. This type of sedation will cause drowsiness and may even cause the child to fall asleep. 
  • General Anesthesia: This is typically administered through an IV and puts the child in a deep sleep. This type of sedation is only used for major dental surgeries and in a hospital setting. 

Is Dental Sedation Safe? 

We understand your concern but know that avoiding helping your child get the treatment they need will only lead to more problems which will require lengthier and more complex procedures. So, it's better to use laughing gas now to treat a minor cavity, for example, than to require a deeper form of sedation for a tooth infection. 

And yes, all types of sedation are generally safe when administered by professionals. We also take all the precautions to ensure your child will be well, including reviewing their child's medical history and monitoring their vital signs throughout the sedation process.

How To Prepare Your Child for Sedation 

Depending on the type of sedation used, your child may need to avoid eating and drinking for several hours before the treatment. Dr. Ying An will give you all the information you need regarding how to prepare your child for receiving sedation. 

After the procedure, your child might feel drowsy or nauseous. It's important to monitor your child closely as the sedative wears off.

Good Communication Is Key 

Pediatric dental treatments can be hard both for the child and the parent. That's why it's important to find a pediatric dentist in Burton that is open about explaining all the steps of the treatment plan. 

At Sunflower Pediatric Dentistry, we care about empowering our patients so you can rest assured that you will receive all the information you need to make informed decisions about your little one's oral health. 

Get in touch with us now to book your child's appointment with Dr. Ying An. 

Back to the blog