Is Dental Sedation Safe for Children?

It’s not uncommon for children to experience dental fear and anxiety that makes them hesitant to go to their checkups and cleanings. As a parent, you’re likely stuck between a rock and a hard place weighing their nervousness alongside the importance of their routine preventive dental visits. Sedation dentistry for children offers an excellent solution! However, some parents fear whether or not it’s safe. Read on to learn what the experts say about children’s dental sedation so you can make an informed decision.

Why is Dental Sedation Recommended for Children?

Whether your child is young or a little older, bad past dental experiences and the fear of the unknown play big roles in whether they have dental phobia. You may even be surprised to know that countless adults experience the same fear! It can be debilitating, anxiety-inducing, and negatively impact their relationship with their oral health.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry as well as the American Academy of Pediatrics acknowledges that dental sedation for children can help create more positive experiences and allow them to tolerate necessary and important treatments. Typically, it’s recommended for children who experience mild to moderate dental fear and anxiety to help them feel more at-ease while they’re in the treatment chair. In more severe cases, parents may be referred to specialists who offer general anesthesia.

Types of Dental Sedation for Kids

There are two main types of dental sedation for children offered in-office by their dentist:

• Nitrous oxide is administered while your child is in the treatment chair. They’ll breathe in a colorless, odorless substance through a small nose mask that will help them get comfortable as their dentist cleans their teeth, places a filling, or conducts another treatment they need. One great benefit of this sedation method is that it can be adjusted based on their response to it, and the effects wear off nearly immediately.
• Oral conscious sedation is administered in the form of a single pill or a small amount of liquid that they can take before their visit. It will help them feel much more relaxed during their appointment and has a longer-lasting effect than nitrous oxide sedation.

Making the Best Decision for Your Little One

Weighing the pros and cons of children’s sedation dentistry can feel heavy on your shoulders as a parent. However, there are some ways to put your mind at ease. Take plenty of time to speak with your children’s dentist in Dallas to better understand any risks and rewards of the service. Ask about their qualifications, whether this is a common service they provide, and what they think would best suit your child’s situation. Doing this will help you feel confident so you know that you’re making the best decision for your little one.

About the Author

Dr. Vanina Arrechea has over 20 years of experience practicing dentistry and is a compassionate and highly skilled professional. She enjoys treating patients of all ages and is excellent with even the most nervous children, helping them feel right at home in her care. As a mother herself, she understands the concerns of parents as well as fears of children, so she collaborates with the entire family in a team-based manner that puts everyone at ease. For questions about children’s dental sedation or to schedule an appointment, call Daily Smiles Dental’s website or call 469-620-7879.