4 Types Of Sedation Dentistry For Children

Your dentist may recommend sedation dentistry if your child is extremely nervous about being at the dentist or has a sensory disorder that makes it difficult for your child to handle the process of being at the dentist.

#1. Deep Sedation

Deep sedation is when an intravenous drug is used to put your child to sleep. Your child will be completely asleep. Your child may move a little bit and make some sounds, but they are asleep and not aware of what is happening with deep sedation.

With deep sedation, your child may be hooked up to oxygen to ensure that they are breathing correctly. There should always be a dedicated medical professional monitoring your child's vitals when deep sedation is used for dentistry work.

#2. Moderate Sedation

Moderate sedation will not put your child to sleep all the way; instead it will make your child feel really drowsy. Your child may still be able to respond when told to do something, but in all likelihood, they will not remember the procedure or will remember very little about it.

With moderate sedation, your child's breathing is usually not impacted, nor is their cardiovascular function.

#3. Mild Sedation

Mild sedation can be achieved with oral drugs that your child can take. Your child will still be awake; however, their body will be more relaxed. They may not move as fast nor react with alarm to the dentist as they go about their procedure. Your child should feel more relaxed but still aware of what is happening.

#4. Nitrous Oxide

The mildest form of sedation is nitrous oxide. Nitrous oxide is mixed together with oxygen, and your child has to breath it in. It helps your child to relax but does not make your child go to sleep or impact their respiratory or cardiovascular systems. Nitrous oxide wears off quickly, and will not say in your child's system for long. This is the most common form of sedation used with children as it just helps your child relax and can help your child get past their fear and anxiety about the dentist or it can help your child stay still for a normal dental cleaning and checkup.

If you can't get your child to the dentist to get the dental care they need because of anxiety or sensory issues, talk to a dentist, like those at Brookside Dental Associate, to see if sedation dentistry is right for your child. Remember to inform your child's dentist about your child's full medical history, as that is a vital component when deciding if sedation dentistry is right for your child.