No More Anxiety: What Dental Sedation Options Are Available for Kids?

It’s almost time for your child’s dental appointment, and you dread what is to come. The pleading to cancel, the struggle to get in the car, the tears that fall during the drive. Dental anxiety is a real issue among some young children; however, it doesn’t have to be what keeps them from receiving necessary oral healthcare. Read on to discover the different types of dental sedation and how a dentist can recommend the right one for a more positive experience.

What Types of Sedation Are Available?

When it comes to recommendations that help alleviate your child’s anxiety and nervousness, it’s important that you know about the different options their sedation dentist will suggest. These include:

• Nitrous oxide: As an odorless, colorless gas, nitrous oxide is inhaled through a nasal mask, creating a calming effect that will relax your child while in the treatment chair. Its fast-acting effects minimize any fears or nervousness, so that they remain unbothered by what is happening around them.
• Oral conscious sedation: As a prescribed pill medication that is taken before an appointment, this method produces a deep state of relaxation once your child is in the treatment chair. They may doze off during treatment, but they will not be fully sedated. Instead, they will feel no pain or fear, only complete comfort.
• IV sedation: As the strongest form of sedation offered (apart from general anesthesia), IV sedation requires a needle to be inserted into the hand so that the medicine can immediately enter the bloodstream and begin working. The effects can make your child feel as if they are falling asleep, but they can be easily awakened if necessary.

Is My Child a Good Candidate for Sedation?

It is necessary to schedule a consultation with a sedation dentist for children to determine whether your child is a good candidate for sedation. After reviewing their overall health and discussing their medical history and current medications, the pediatric dentist will decide how best to proceed.

Although one solution may not be suitable, another may be enough to “take the edge off” when your child arrives for treatment.

Ensuring your child’s comfort and safety during their visit is paramount. Talking to their dentist about sedation options can be what your little one needs to maintain a healthier smile without the tears and fears.

About the Author
Dr. Allen Pearson has over 20 years of experience as a board-certified pediatric dentist, opening his dental practice in 2003. Since then, he has provided thousands of children with dental sedation options to help reduce anxiety and create positive, healthy experiences. Whether it is nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation, he and his team can generate a relaxing atmosphere while working more efficiently and effectively to boost oral health and improve smile aesthetics. If you believe your child might benefit from sedation, visit our website or call (972) 429-7070 to schedule an appointment.