Whether you have one or multiple kids, you certainly realize how different each child is. While one loves to hug or show their artwork, another is much shyer; while one prefers to play sports, another likes to create story-based games. Likewise, not all kids need the same type of dental sedation. So, how does your pediatric decide which type would best suit your child? Here are four questions they might ask and consider while making the right sedative choice!
How Strong Is Your Child’s Dental Anxiety and/or Gag Reflex?
Perhaps the most common reason for opting to have your child sedated, fear of the dental office or the dentist can lead to a challenging visit without it. A sensitive gag reflex can also make work in their mouth difficult. Depending on the level of these factors, especially anxiety, your pediatric dentist may select mild nitrous oxide or oral conscious or IV sedation for more deep-seated, intense fears.
Does Your Child Have Special Needs?
Not all kids with special needs require sedation dentistry, but it often helps them stay still and completely calm throughout the procedure. Whether your child has medical conditions that make sitting in one place uncomfortable or they have developmental and sensory issues, sedation can soothe them until the essential work is finished. Again, depending on the severity and type of needs your child has, nitrous oxide may not be appropriate, meaning IV sedation will likely need to be used.
How Long Is the Procedure Your Child Needs?
If your child comes in only for a simple checkup, your pediatric dentist may suggest using a gentler, more temporary form of sedation: nitrous oxide. As soon as the nasal mask is removed, your child should regain usual feeling and thinking within minutes. Afterward, they can resume a typical day without concerns about side effects or lingering drowsiness.
On the other hand, if your child undergoes multiple or a complicated procedure(s), a longer-lasting, deeper sedative may be more helpful. Oral conscious and IV sedation eventually fade after a few hours, and your pediatric dentist will recommend watching your child to make sure they remain safe until they become normal again.
How Old Is Your Child?
The age of your kid matters because effectiveness of sedatives depends on the size of the patient. Younger children, for instance, usually need less powerful medication, while older kids can tolerate smaller dosages, making higher ones necessary. In addition, young children can have a difficult time swallowing an oral pill, which means nitrous oxide or IV sedation are generally preferred for this age group, but older children may take oral conscious sedation in advance to prepare for their appointment.
When you call or reach out online to schedule your child’s appointment, be sure to share your concerns and the request for sedation dentistry. The pediatric dentist may call you with follow-up questions and make sure the right type of sedation can make your child’s visit more successful and pleasant, no matter how unique they are.
About the Practice
Although all the dentists at Dental Specialists Pediatric Dentistry are board-certified in pediatric dental care, some have more training and experience in various parts of this field. Because of our skills and specialties, we can help kids with special needs and provide sedation for our patients 18 years and younger. If you have concerns about your child’s upcoming dental visit, please reach out to us online or call our Garland office at 972-364-7472 and let us know how we can improve your child’s time with us.