Dental anxiety is not uncommon among younger patients. Children who have past dental trauma often have difficulty visiting the dentist’s office, which can make it harder on parents when trying to stay on top of their oral health and hygiene. With sedation dentistry, dentists can provide necessary oral healthcare to children while creating a healthier and less stressful environment for patients. If your child needs something to make them more comfortable when visiting the dentist, find out how sedation dentistry can help.
How Safe is Dental Sedation for Kids?
To ensure children remain safe when receiving any form of dental sedation, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatrics revised the guidelines that oral healthcare professionals are to follow when administering more advanced forms of sedation (i.e., general anesthesia and IV sedation).
When it comes to most dentists who provide sedation, nitrous oxide is the most commonly used form for children. However, some young patients can receive oral conscious or IV sedation if the care they need is more extensive (i.e., multiple treatments during one appointment, extreme dental anxiety, etc.).
Safe and easy to administer, the immediate effects of nitrous oxide can cause fear and anxiety to dissipate, allowing young patients to feel more relaxed throughout treatment.
How Does Nitrous Oxide Work?
Children who receive nitrous oxide can expect to meet with their dentist who will discuss how the entire process works.
First, a nasal mask is placed over the nose before a combination of nitrous oxide and oxygen is administered. The child is instructed to breathe normally, as this causes the mixture to begin taking effect. Within minutes, the dentist can start providing the necessary treatment because the child is fully relaxed.
Throughout the visit, dental team members will closely monitor the child to ensure they remain safe and at ease. It is during this time that the patient might feel a slight tingling sensation or warmth. They might also drift off to sleep but can be easily awakened.
Once treatment is complete, the mask is removed and the gas is turned off, allowing the child to breathe normal oxygen. After a few minutes, the effects wear off, and they should feel normal again and are free to resume regular activity after their appointment.
A child’s experience at the dentist’s office should be positive, comfortable, and reassuring. With the help of sedation dentistry, dentists can begin to change the way young patients feel about oral health and hygiene, resulting in more enjoyable visits in the future.
About Grand Dental – Aurora
At Grand Dental – Aurora, our esteemed dental team welcomes patients of all ages to receive essential oral healthcare. Offering sedation dentistry to help minimize feelings of anxiety or fear, we can help young patients feel more confident and comfortable when visiting our Aurora office. If you have a child who needs help staying calm during a normal dental appointment, visit our website or call (630) 538-8302 to learn how we can help.