SEDATION DENTISTRY

Helping Children Be More Comfortable At The Dentist

Dentistry is a common place for people to experience anxiety, fear and even panic attacks. This can be due to the thought of dental work or because of previous experiences with dentists. As such, many children are fearful about going to see the dentist. Sedation dentistry may help alleviate some fears in children and help make going to the dentist a more positive experience.

Dentistry is a common place for people to experience anxiety, fear and even panic attacks. This can be due to the thought of dental work or because of previous experiences with dentists. As such, many children are fearful about going to see the dentist. Sedation dentistry may help alleviate some fears in children and help make going to the dentist a more positive experience.

REQUEST A PEDIATRIC DENTAL APPOINTMENT
Dark blue branding visuals

Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It is also sometimes called sleep dentistry, although most patients are not actually asleep during the procedure. There are different types of sedation that can be used depending on the level of anxiety and fear the patient is experiencing.

Types Of Sedation Dentistry

Some forms of sedation used in dentistry include:

This type of sedation uses nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas. The gas is inhaled through a mask that is placed over the nose. It helps to relax patients and can make them feel lightheaded. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off quickly, so patients are able to drive themselves home after their procedure.

Oral sedation uses a pill that is taken before the appointment. The medication helps to relax patients and can make them drowsy. Patients will need someone to drive them home after their procedure.

 IV sedation is administered through a small needle that is inserted into the vein. It helps patients to relax and can make them feel sleepy. Patients will need someone to drive them home after their procedure.

What Are The Benefits Of Sedation Dentistry For Children?

There are many benefits of sedation dentistry for children.

Sedation dentistry can help to ease anxiety and fear in children. This can make the dental experience more positive and help to build trust between the child and dentist.

Children who are anxious or fearful about dental procedures may not cooperate during their appointment. Sedation can help to increase cooperation and make the appointment go more smoothly.

Some children have a strong gag reflex, which can make dental procedures difficult. Sedation can help to decrease the gag reflex and make the procedure easier for both the child and dentist.

Dental procedures can be traumatic for children, especially if they are anxious or fearful. Sedation can help to prevent trauma and make the experience more positive.

When Is Sedation Dentistry Appropriate For Children?

Sedation dentistry may be appropriate for children who are anxious or fearful about dental procedures. If you are considering sedation dentistry for your child, be sure to talk to your dentist about the risks and benefits involved. Your dentist can help you decide if sedation is the best option for your child. The most common reasons to consider sedation are if a child is very nervous, anxious or scared of a dental appointment, having serious dental surgery, or is scared of needles. Other reasons may include trouble sitting still, has a very strong gag reflex, or has special needs.

Child receiving sedation dentistry

Ways To Reduce Dental Anxiety In Children

  • Always be positive

  • Be careful not to let your anxiety show

  • Avoid using words like pain, hurt, needle, shot, drill

  • Use “kid-friendly” words, we will too

  • DO NOT go into excessive detail about the procedure because you may show anxiety or say things that may trigger anxiety

  • Offer a reward for good behavior 

  • Sometimes, children will cry and that is perfectly okay, just be reassuring and encouraging by saying things like “Good job” or “Be brave”

Group of happy children smiling

PEDIATRIC DENTAL CARE

Valencia branding visuals

REQUEST YOUR APPOINTMENT

We are dedicated to providing a safe dental home for our patients, and are looking forward to serving you and your family. Our team cannot wait to meet you!