Dental sedation is a way to make pediatric dentistry visits pain-free for children. It involves using sedative medications that help your child feel calm and relaxed. Perhaps more importantly, they are less likely to experience much discomfort during more invasive pediatric dental procedures. This review discusses sedation during pain-free visits with a top pediatric dentist.
There are several sedation options available in pediatric dentistry. The most common option among many pain-free pediatric dentists is nitrous oxide, which is safe and effective. However, oral sedatives and IV sedation are great options in certain instances as well. Here is a closer look at these three common dental sedation options for children.
Nitrous oxide is often referred to as “laughing gas” due to the incredibly relaxed state children feel with the sedative. It is the milder option available in pediatric dentistry. With this sedation option, the child wears a mask that produces nitrous oxide, which almost immediately provides a mild relaxing sensation. The child is awake the entire procedure and can communicate effectively; the dentist can remove the mask anytime the child begins to feel uncomfortable.
As the name suggests, oral sedation is mild sedation taken in pill form. The child may feel drowsier than they would with nitrous oxide, but they are awake during the procedure and can communicate to a limited extent. The child takes the oral sedative once they arrive at the office, and it can take up to 20 minutes to take effect. The effects should wear off relatively quickly after the procedure ends. Oral sedation is entirely safe with minimal (and rare) risks and side effects.
Intravenous sedation (IV sedation) is perhaps the strongest form of sedation that top pediatric dentists use. It typically produces the most pain-free experience possible. Treatment involves the insertion of a needle into the child’s vein, either in their arm or hand. IV sedation is also safe but may make the child drowsier than the aforementioned options. IV sedation is typically recommended for longer or more invasive procedures.
It can help to know what to expect before, during, and after a visit for a procedure with a pain-free pediatric dentist. Of course, the experience is unique for everyone. However, here are some general guidelines and expectations to keep in mind.
There are not usually any special instructions to follow with nitrous oxide. For oral sedation, your child should not eat or drink anything for 12 hours before their scheduled time. IV sedation usually requires not eating for 12 hours as well. Be sure to ask your child’s dentist about any special instructions and recommendations. In most cases, children can also continue taking any prescribed medication they have before the dental procedure.
It does not take long for any of the three common sedation options to take effect. The child should experience minimal discomfort during the procedure. The dentist may provide special drink and food instructions after the visit. For nitrous oxide, your child should eat lightly (or not at all) for the first few hours. Parents may need to wait for the medications to wear off before leaving. Children respond differently after a visit and as the effects of the sedation wear off.
Adults must choose their dentist wisely. However, it is even more important to ensure their children have the right dentist for their needs. Ideally, it is best to choose one of the top pediatric dentists in your area who has a pristine community reputation and focuses on pain-free treatment options for children. When visiting a top pain-free pediatric dentist, you can expect these benefits:
Here at our top pediatric dentistry practice, we offer a pain-free dental experience for children. To learn more and schedule a visit, reach out to us today. We are glad to answer your questions and concerns during the phone call.
Request an appointment here: https://www.grandparkwaypediatricdental.com or call Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental at (832) 222-8687 for an appointment in our Richmond office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Pediatric Dentist in Richmond, TX.
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