Is Dental Sedation Safe for Kids? 

We all know how hard it can be to clean a child's teeth. But, if their teeth have developed cavities, then they will need to see a dentist and treat the decay before it gets worse. 

If your child is anxious about their upcoming appointment or if you have a special needs child who has a difficult time sitting still for long periods, then your dentist will probably recommend sedation.

But, is sedation safe for kids? 

This article will try to answer all of your questions regarding sedation dentistry for kids

Is Sedation Safe for Kids? 

It's normal to feel anxious and have a lot of questions about complex medical procedures. So, right from the start, let us tell you that sedation is generally safe for kids. Of course, the dentist will review your child's medical history to ensure they are fit for sedation, but in most cases, the benefits of oral sedation outweigh the risk. 

Try to think about it this way: your five-year-old may seem too young for sedation, but in medical terms, they are in the prime of their health and in the low-risk category (granted they don't have any serious health problems.) 

But, for sedation dentistry to be safe, it must be administered by a trained and certified professional. They know how much sedative is needed and how to monitor the entire process to ensure everything goes smoothly. Moreover, you should also make sure that the clinic has all the necessary equipment and the right team to help your child in case something goes wrong. 

Types of Sedation 

At Kindred Pediatric Dentistry, we use three types of sedation to help anxious children and special needs persons feel safe during dental procedures:

  • Laughing Gas - This is the mildest form of sedation and it has virtually no side effects. Your child will inhale the gas through a mask and remain awake during the procedure. Once the treatment is over and the mask is removed, the effects of the gas will wear off in a matter of minutes. 
  • IV Sedation - This is a deeper form of sedation, needed for longer or more complex treatments. The sedative will be injected and the anesthetist will closely monitor your child's vital signs. Your child will still be awake although they are likely to nod off from time to time. 
  • General Anesthesia - If your child needs extensive dental treatment, then we may recommend general anesthesia. They will be asleep during the procedure and might feel a bit nauseous and groggy when they wake up. 

Are You Looking for a Safe Dental Practice for Your Kids in Beaumont? 

Kindred Pediatric Dentistry is your trusted pediatric dental office in Beaumont, CA. Regardless of the treatment your child needs, you can rest assured that they are in safe hands with us. 

Head to our contact page and get in touch with us to book your appointment, 

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