Like many adults, children are often quite anxious about visiting the dentist. Treating the mouth of a restless child can be difficult, potentially leading to their oral health diminishing over time. Thankfully, dental sedation treatments have allowed millions of children to sit comfortably through their oral health appointments, and they can be especially important when treating children with special needs. Here’s a list of a few sedation treatments children can receive and some of the benefits they offer.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, also called laughing gas, is a colorless and odorless gas that has been used to safely reduce anxiety and discomfort in dental patients for almost two centuries. This treatment is administered through a mask worn over the nose, inducing a sense of calm and raising the pain threshold. Nitrous oxide is eliminated from the body about fifteen minutes after treatment ceases, and it typically involves no side effects. While some children may experience dizziness or queasiness after treatment, these symptoms should be mild and temporary.
IV Dental Sedation
For children with greater dental anxiety, IV sedation may be the appropriate treatment. After your child receives the sedative, they will quickly develop a profound sense of calm and a reduced awareness of pain. They will not fall asleep and will still be able to respond to questions and instructions.
Your child will probably need some time to rest after their appointment since it will take some time for the treatment to wear off. This treatment can result in mild amnesia, preventing the patient from remembering the appointment and developing unpleasant associations with the dentist’s office.
General Anesthesia
General anesthesia puts a patient into a sleep-like state and is typically administered before especially complex or time-consuming procedures. While your child is under anesthesia, the staff at the dental office will monitor their vital signs to ensure their safety. This treatment can be especially beneficial for children with severe dental anxiety or sensory issues, as they will not have to deal with stressful memories of their appointment afterward.
Dental sedation can reduce discomfort and relieve anxiety in children while allowing their dentist to work faster. After a brief consultation, your dentist will be able to tell if your child can be a good candidate for sedation.
About the Author
Dr. Matt Strumpf earned his dental degree from Midwestern University and completed his pediatric specialty training at the University of Illinois Chicago. He is proud to serve as a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. His office in Inver Grove Heights offers children’s general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as dental sedation services. To learn more about the benefits of dental sedation, contact his office online or dial (651) 450-6111.