Dental Sedation for Children

Dentists and some dental treatments can cause fear in children. This is usually due to apprehension about the unknown. Most often, dental fear in children tends to fade after they become accustomed to visiting the dentist's office. 

Sedation Dentistry In Murfreesboro, TN for children is a technique used by pediatric dentists to help young patients relax and feel comfortable during dental procedures. It is particularly beneficial for children who experience anxiety or fear when visiting the dentist, as well as those who have special healthcare needs or difficulty sitting still for extended periods.

In this article, dentist in Murfreesboro TN at Stonegate Family Dentistry in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, explains more about dental sedation options for kids, as well as any potential side effects that parents should be aware of.

Types of Dental Sedation for Children

In dentistry, sedation is used to relieve pain and anxiety, allowing dentist in 37129 to complete procedures and treatments more quickly. It is utilized in children's dental care to help them cope with their fear of pain while also ensuring that the therapy is effective. 

Below are the different types of sedation used on kids:

Nitrous Oxide 

Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is a mild sedative administered through a mask placed over the child's nose. It helps children relax and feel more comfortable during dental treatment while allowing them to remain conscious and responsive. Nitrous oxide is safe and effective for most children and wears off quickly once the mask is removed.

Oral Sedatives

The dentist will prescribe an oral sedative for your child, which will provide mild to moderate sedation depending on the kind of drug and dosage. Oral sedatives may make the child feel sleepy but they will still be able to move and respond to the dentist’s commands.

General Anesthesia

When procedures cannot be performed safely while the child is awake or laughing gas is ineffective, general anesthesia may be administered. Your child’s vital signs will be monitored throughout the procedure and they will be in a state of deep sleep while under a general anesthetic. They won't be able to feel or recall anything about the dental procedure. Call us to learn more.

Side Effects of Dental Sedation

• Parents must be aware of the potential effects that sedation may have on their children. This information might sometimes be the deciding factor when it comes to sedative alternatives:
• Vomiting and dizziness are common side-effects of inhaling too much nitrous oxide.
• After undergoing nitrous oxide sedation, some kids get sleepy. This is a mild effect that will recede fast.
• In the case of general anesthesia, the child's nose, throat, and mouth might be numb for about 45 minutes. 

Before administering any form of sedation, pediatric dentists conduct a thorough evaluation of the child's medical history, including any allergies, medications, or underlying health conditions. They also discuss the benefits, risks, and alternatives to sedation with the child's parents or guardians to ensure informed consent.

During the dental procedure, the dental team closely monitors the child's vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, to ensure their safety and well-being. After the procedure, children are carefully monitored as they recover from sedation and are typically advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for the remainder of the day.

Overall, dental sedation for children can help alleviate anxiety, fear, and discomfort associated with dental treatment, allowing them to receive necessary care in a safe and supportive environment. By tailoring sedation techniques to meet the individual needs of each child, pediatric dentists can ensure a positive dental experience and promote lifelong oral health.

If you’d like to get more information on dental sedation for kids, contact Stonegate Family Dentistry at (615) 624-6919 or visit our office at 206 A N Thompson Lane, Murfreesboro, TN 37129.