Does your child have anxiety about visiting the dentist? Your child might express fear and worries in the days leading up to a dentist appointment. Your child might also cry or cling to you when it’s time to sit in the dentist’s chair. If dentist visits are difficult and frustrating for you and your child, sedation dentistry might be the answer.
Sedation dentistry offers a solution to dental phobia and anxiety. However, you may have questions for your dentist about the procedure. Here are 3 questions to ask when exploring sedation dentistry for your child.
1. Why should I consider sedation dentistry?
Regular dental checkups are essential for your child’s oral health. In addition, any additional procedures and treatments recommended by your dentist are vital in keeping your child’s teeth, mouth, and gums healthy.
Your child may resist cleanings and treatment if they have a dental phobia. Sedation dentistry offers options for helping your child relax at the dentist to receive the care they need. Sedation can also help turn a visit to the dentist into a much more pleasant experience for you and your child.
2. What are my child’s options for sedation?
At Healthy Smiles Children’s Dentistry, we offer three types of sedation.
Nitrous oxide is a popular, traditional form of sedation that often goes by the nickname “laughing gas.” It is safe and effective at relieving mild pain and offering your child a sense of euphoria.
Oral conscious sedation is an oral medication that is stronger than nitrous oxide. Your child may even fall asleep during a dental visit.
We also partner with Children’s Medical Center if advanced sedation is needed for any of our child patients. For procedures at the hospital, we can offer full sedation.
3. What can I expect before, during, and after the procedure?
Ensure you follow your dentist’s instructions when preparing your child for sedation. There may be restrictions on eating and drinking in the hours leading up to your child’s office visit.
During the sedation, your child should be relaxed and comfortable. Depending on the type of sedation you and your child’s dentist determine is best, your child may experience grogginess as the sedation wears off.
Contact us to learn more about sedation dentistry.
We want every patient to love visiting the dentist! Contact Healthy Smiles Children’s Dentistry to learn more about sedation for your child.