The Benefits of Sedation Dentistry for Young Children

Dental visits are nothing to fear, but some young children find the experience stressful. However, there is an option that can help ease those fears and make dental appointments much easier for everyone involved: sedation dentistry. Here's what parents need to know about sedation dentistry and why it might be the right choice for their child.

What Is Pediatric Sedation Dentistry?

Pediatric sedation dentistry is a type of dental care that uses various medicines to help children relax during their procedures. It should be noted that sedation dentistry does not actually put a patient 'to sleep.' Instead, they enter a relaxed state of mind. In fact, the procedure is available in mild, moderate, and deep sedation levels, depending on the complexity of the treatment and the needs of the patient.

How Does Pediatric Sedation Dentistry Work?

The way pediatric sedation dentistry works depends on the level of sedation used. In some cases, oral medication will be given before treatment, so your child is relaxed before entering the examination room.

If your child is not comfortable swallowing a pill or needs a deeper level of sedation, they will be given a nose covering that supplies nitrous oxide during the procedure. While this medicine has the nickname 'laughing gas,' it does not give you the giggles. Instead, it just keeps the patient calm and mellow. Nitrous oxide wears off shortly after the dental procedure.

The last form of sedation dentistry is general anesthesia, typically used during oral surgery. An IV may be placed in your child's arm to ensure they remain asleep throughout the procedure. The effects of general anesthesia do linger after the procedure is over but will wear off in a few hours. 

Why Choose Pediatric Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry offers many benefits for both parents and children alike. Perhaps most importantly, it helps reduce stress and anxiety levels by providing a safe and comfortable environment where dental treatments can be performed. In addition, it allows complex procedures to be completed in one appointment instead of multiple ones, saving both time and money in the long run.

There are many benefits associated with pediatric sedation dentistry, making it an increasingly popular choice among parents who want their children to receive quality dental care without fear or pain. If you have any questions or concerns about this type of procedure, don't hesitate to ask your dentist. They'll be able to provide you with more information about what options are available for your family's unique needs.  

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