Dental Sedatives For Children

Kids may become anxious at the thought of an invasive dental procedure. However, sometimes a dental treatment must be performed on a young dental patient to protect the child's oral health. Due to the apprehension that pediatric patient may experience, the dentist may suggest dental sedation for the little one. Still, for a parent, the sedation of their child may be unsettling.

Here is a bit of information to make you more comfortable with dental sedatives for your child.

What Types of Sedation Are Used?

The dentist selects the type of sedative based on the specific needs of your child and the type of treatment that will be performed. 

Inhaled Sedatives

One of the most common sedatives used in pediatric dentistry is nitrous oxide. The substance, which is often called laughing gas, offers effective sedation that wears off quickly. The gas is mixed with oxygen before it is applied using a mask. 

As your child stops inhaling the gas, the nitrous oxide rapidly dissipates in their body. The substance does not render your child unconscious. However, it does help your youngster relax, offering a euphoric sensation.

Oral Sedatives

Medication may be administered to your youngster orally to sedate them. An oral sedative may be taken about a half hour prior to your child's procedure to help them remain calm. 

Like the inhaled sedatives, oral sedation does not cause the child to become unconscious, but they may feel drowsy. The child is typically able to respond to verbal commands and questions. Nevertheless, their coordination and balance may be impaired while the drug is still in their system.

Intravenous Sedation

With an intravenous sedative, the dental provider administers the medication to your child through an IV, allowing the drug to flow directly into the youngster's bloodstream. With this type of sedation, the child sleeps deeply. In addition, unlike inhaled and oral sedatives, an intravenous sedative may affect the youngster's respiration and cardiovascular functionality. As a result, the child is closely monitored when intravenous sedation is used.

Who Needs Dental Sedation?

A child who becomes excessively anxious about their dental appointments may benefit from sedation. Additionally, the dentist may suggest sedation for a youngster who is required to remain still throughout a lengthy procedure or who will undergo a painful dental treatment. Children with special needs may also be great candidates for dental sedatives.

Dental sedation is a common application and is considered quite safe. If you would like to learn more about how sedatives could make your child more comfortable during their dental appointments, schedule a consultation with a dentist in your local area.

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