Dental phobia is also extremely hard-wired, meaning those that have it usually have it for life. This can lead to poor dental care, tooth loss, and gum disease. If your child isn’t ready to confront their fears, they may avoid going to the dentist entirely. If your child is too nervous to go to the dentist or is avoiding dental care altogether, sedation dentistry is a great option.
How Sedation Dentistry Works
Sedation works by using medications that make your child sleep. If they are bothered by needles, they can be given a pill first. Once all of the dental work is done, your child is then given a different medication to wake them up. This means your child can sleep through the entire procedure and won’t remember any of it. Sedation dentistry allows your child to get the dental work they need, safely and quickly, all without any unpleasant memories or sensations.
Adaptable to the Individual
We want your child to be as comfortable as possible during their dental treatment. A small portion of patients need sedation for any work at all, including cleanings and checkups. This treatment should mainly be used for those getting dental services in a hospital setting or have a long health history.
Preparing for Sedation Dentistry
Your dentist will give you complete instructions, but there are some general guidelines you will want to be aware of before your child’s appointment. They shouldn’t eat after midnight the night before sedation. If they are diabetic or will need to drink something to take medications in the morning, ask our dentist for specific instructions.
Not the Right Choice for Everyone
As with any medical procedure, sedation dentistry is not proper for everyone. If your child has ever had an adverse reaction to sedation medication, you may need to avoid it or try another relaxation method such as laughing gas or anti-anxiety medications. If your child has any issues with their respiratory system, such as asthma or COPD, sedation of any kind may not be safe for them. The same can be said for circulatory issues such as heart disease. Talk to our dentist about any health issues your child has before consenting to treatment.
Call our offices today at Ashburn Children’s Dentistry to schedule an appointment. We understand your child’s fears and are committed to helping then get the healthy smile you deserve.
