Can sedation dentistry benefit a restless or anxious child?

sedation dentistry CharlottesvilleReceiving oral treatment can be difficult for children, especially when being still and calm is essential to having an effective and comfortable procedure. Sedation dentistry can be of great benefit for children, especially since some of the sounds and sensations they experience can be new and concerning. Using sedation promotes a relaxing and calm experience that can make even the most restless or fearful child feel at ease.

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is a service that involves administering nitrous oxide gas or medication in different forms to produce a calming effect. Sometimes, sedation can have analgesic benefits, too. The objectives of sedation are to improve patient comfort and increase the effectiveness of treatment by allowing our doctors to work without interruption or obstruction. 

Are there different types of sedation?

Yes, there are different types of sedation. The mildest form of sedation is nitrous oxide. Administered in gas form, nitrous oxide is a safe, fast-acting way to produce a sense of calm without a long-lasting anesthetic. This type of sedation is helpful for oral examinations and short, non-invasive procedures. Stronger sedation methods involve giving prescription medication through tablets or intravenous feeds. Prescription medications used for sedation normally comes from the benzodiazepine class of drugs that prevent the chemical reactions responsible for feelings of intense panic, worry, and anxiousness. This medication can make a patient feel groggy – especially when higher dosages are used. Ideal for long, complex procedures, oral and IV sedation can affect one’s ability to remember his or her procedure as well as have lingering effects of fatigue a few hours after treatment.

How do I know if sedation dentistry is right for my child?

If your child suffers with anxiety related to clinical settings or has difficulty being still during treatment, sedation might be a good option for improving your child’s experience at our practice. Before determining if sedation dentistry is right for your child, you need to speak with our oral surgeon who can help you determine the proper course of action.

Contact Charlottesville Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center today to reserve a consultation.

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