Is Dental Sedation Safe for Children?

Has your child been experiencing dental pain, and your pediatric dentist has recommended them to undergo a dental procedure?

The thought of preparing for a dental procedure might excite some kids or, in some cases, make them anxious or distressed. Under both circumstances, pediatric dentists recommend using general anesthesia or sedatives that will help calm your child.

If your child is a hyperactive kid, and the ‘cool’ equipment at the dentist’s office prevents them from sitting still and getting the dental procedure done, then sedation can help calm your child. On the other hand, the thought of experiencing pain during the treatment might prevent some children from sitting calmly.

Pediatric dentists administer sedatives to such children so that they sit steadily and allow for the dentists to do their job. The idea of giving sedatives to young children might not seem safe.

Please read this blog to understand what sedatives are, what types of sedatives are used and their side effects.

What are Dental Sedatives?

Dental sedatives are drugs that can help your child to sit calmly for a dental procedure. However, these sedatives don’t promise relief from pain. After sedation is achieved, dentists administer medication that helps prevent pain during dental treatment.

What Are the Types Of Sedatives Available For Children?

Your pediatric dentists might use the following types of sedatives before the procedure:

Nitrous Oxide

This sedating gas shouldn’t be confused with nitrous dioxide, which is a highly poisonous gas.

Nitrous oxide is a perfectly safe gas administered through a face mask that covers the nose and is recommended by the American Society of Dentist Anesthesiologists. After inhaling the gas for a good 5 minutes, your child will be under sedation and ready to undergo the dental procedure.

Oral Sedatives

If your child is apprehensive of having a face mask over their nose, they can be given oral sedatives to calm them down. The oral sedatives usually kick into the system after 20 minutes.

Parents should help prepare their children by limiting any food intake the night before the dental procedure.

After the child has regained consciousness, they may experience drowsiness. Parents are required to accompany the child until this drowsiness dies away.

Side-Effects of Sedation

The effects of sedation subside after a few hours. However, when your child regains consciousness after the dental procedure, they might experience slight nausea and dizziness. If these side effects persist, the parent should immediately contact the doctor.

At Water Front Family Dentistry, we have the most experienced pediatric dentist in Frisco, Texas. Our dental practitioners ensure that your child is calm before the dental procedure and that your child has a painless experience. Reach out to us to schedule an appointment for your child today.