We always want the best for our kids – and that includes a healthy, strong, pain-free smile. But sometimes treating little teeth can be difficult. Adults know that keeping their mouths open for extensive dental procedures isn’t easy, so imagine how challenging it is for a child! Add fright or anxiety into the mix, and suddenly a fairly routine visit becomes a crisis – and that is the last thing we want! Fear of the dentist is one of the main factors in adult dental disease. But you and your little one have nothing to fear with your pediatric dentist in Spring. 

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry comes in a variety of forms, but no matter which type of sedation dentistry your pediatric dentist in Spring recommends, it will help your child relax. In fact, sedation dentistry is designed to soothe, and calm even the most frightened child.

How to Decide Whether Your Child Could Benefit From Sedation

Ask yourself the following questions before approaching your pediatric dentist about sedation: 

• Has my child had a bad dental experience in the past?
• Does my child seem upset at the mention of a dental appointment?
• Is my child restless, fidgety, or diagnosed with ADHD?
• Does my child have a very strong gag reflex?
• Is my child developmentally unable to understand and follow instructions?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, please feel free to talk to us about sedation. It may be just what your child needs.

Types of Sedation 

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, also known as Laughing Gas, is one type of sedation dentistry. It produces a euphoric feeling and kids can often feel very happy while this is being administered. It’s completely painless, wears off quickly, and doesn’t require any preparation or recovery time.

Oral Sedation

The next level of sedation comes in the form of oral sedation. This type of sedation is a medication that’s administered and helps your child thoroughly relax. With this type of sedation, your child will still be able to respond and remain interactive. 

IV Sedation

IV sedation is a great choice for special needs kids or when children need more extensive procedures. Your child will be much sleepier than with nitrous oxide sedation and the effects can last for several hours after the procedure is completed so you will need to continue to monitor your child after you are home. Your child will most likely not be able to return to school after IV sedation. 

If you have questions about how sedation dentistry could benefit your child, please feel free to contact our pediatric dental office in Spring. Our practice is so warm, fun, and welcoming that most children don’t need more than simple Novocain to get through their dental care. Still, parents find it reassuring to know that we can eliminate fear and make dentistry as relaxing and restful as possible if the need arises.