The fact is even adults feel anxious when trying something they have never tried before, like dental sedation. Children are no different, and they tend to feel nervous on the first visit to the dentist. For some children, this dental anxiety continues throughout childhood, and it may be worse for more invasive procedures. In this case, dental sedation can help alleviate anxiety during procedures.
This review discusses dental sedation to help alleviate dental anxiety in pediatric dentistry, highlighting what children’s dental anxiety is exactly, how sedation is used in pediatric dentistry, and when it might be recommended.
Children’s dental anxiety is an often irrational fear of visiting the pediatric dentist in younger patients. The cause of dental anxiety is different for every child. Common causes include a fear of being judged, fear of pain during procedures, or simply a child that is less comfortable and shy around people they do not know as well. Children’s dental anxiety is usually minor, but it can worsen into a dental phobia or linger into the child’s teenage and adult years if not dealt with at an early age.
Dental sedation, also called sedation dentistry or sleep dentistry, is the use of medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. There are different types of sedation used in a pediatric dentist's office, which are nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation. For pediatric dentists, in particular, nitrous oxide (which is also called “laughing gas”) is preferred as it is safer and not as scary for children with dental anxiety.
Of course, more invasive procedures such as tooth extraction or baby root canal require the use of sedation to help the child feel comfortable during treatment. However, for children with dental anxiety, dental sedation may also be recommended for less invasive procedures as well so that they can feel calm and comfortable during the procedure.
Sedation in pediatric dentistry is safe for children when provided by a dental professional. There are some risks associated with sedation, although side effects are rare and typically mild and short-lived when they do occur.
Each type of sedation is administered differently. As mentioned, nitrous oxide is the most common type of sedation for children. This involves wearing a dental mask that released nitrous oxide, which produces a calming sensation for the child and may even give them an urge to laugh or feel funny (hence the name).
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Pediatric Dentist in Richmond, TX
Here at our pediatric dental practice, we pride ourselves on creating a fun and welcoming environment for children that helps minimize anxiety. We also offer sedation dentistry as well. To learn more and schedule a visit with our dental team, give us a call at a time that is convenient for you.
Request an appointment or call Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental at 832-579-0960 for an appointment in our Richmond office.
Visiting a pediatric dentistry office with your child ensures his or her future relationship with oral hygiene and dentists, in general. Whenever your child suffers from oral injuries, consider making an appointment with your pediatric dentist to uncover any underlying problems. For instance, injuries to the tongue and teeth could indicate a deeper jaw or…
Fluoridated water is part of pediatric dentistry. It is a convenient and easy way to strengthen and protect teeth at an early age. Many areas have fluoridated water, which is a definite advantage. If you want to know why a dentist will likely recommend fluoridated water, here are the details.Studies show that almost all sources…
Nutrition is an important part of pediatric dentistry. Having balanced amounts of vitamins and minerals can strengthen and protect the teeth. Proper nutrients also fuel dental function. If you want to know how important nutrition is for your child’s oral health, here are the details from a pediatric dentistry professional.Children are still developing. They need…
Anyone familiar with oral hygiene basics knows that pediatric dentists recommend brushing twice per day — once in the morning and once at night. However, you may not know why. Why is once not enough? After all, experts recommend flossing only once a day. How is brushing your teeth different? This article will explore why…
Everyone learns oral hygiene basics when young, but some details get lost over time. When the time comes, many parents need clarification about what type of toothbrush is best for children. This simple tool comes in many different forms, including a variety of sizes and bristle textures. You may wonder why there are so many…