Anxiety Free Dental Treatment
Why Should I Consider Sedating My Child For Dental Treatment?
Our desire is to try to make every dental visit as positive as possible for children so that they do not grow up with a fear of the dentist. Using a mild sedative can create a higher degree of acceptance of treatment, can raise the pain threshold so the perception of any discomfort is diminished, and can greatly extend the child’s ability to sit still for longer periods of time. All these things lead to a more positive experience for the child, and the ability of the dentist to provide the highest quality of care. The child is usually awake and responsive throughout the procedure but is less likely to become agitated than if not sedated. Sedating a patient is normally a very safe procedure. The dosages of oral sedatives that we use are based upon the age, size, and weight of the child. For healthy children, risks associated with mild to moderate sedation are small.
Alternatives to Sedation –
- Do nothing—This is usually not a suitable alternative, in that the cavities will almost always grow larger. Sometimes the application of a fluoride solution can slow or stop cavities from growing for a time.
- Attempt treatment with no sedation- Usually not a good option, and for many children, not an option at all. If they will not sit still for an examination and x-rays, it is unlikely they will cooperate with treatment without some type of stabilizing or restraining method involved, which is not recommended for elective treatment.
- Put the child to sleep in an outpatient surgical center (general anesthesia) – An anesthesiologist puts the child to sleep and all treatment is done in one visit. For very young children, children with health issues such as asthma, autism, snoring or sleep apnea, moderate to severe developmental delay or behavioral issues, or children who are significantly over-weight, or who require a lot of treatment this may be the only method recommended.
Please feel free to further discuss any of these alternatives with your dentist.
Are oral sedations always effective?
Our experience is that for most children the dosages of medication that we use are effective in creating a cooperative child. However, there are some children who do not experience a level of sedation that will allow treatment to be completed. They take the normal dosage, wait the appropriate time for the medicine to take effect, and still are very uncooperative. In these instances, no attempt at treatment will be done, no additional drugs will be given, and consideration for a general anesthesia procedure will be discussed.
Relaxation & Comfort in Las Vegas, NV
Galaxy Smiles proud to offer sedation to give our patients a painless and stress-free visit in a calm environment. One of the most commonly used types of sedation is nitrous oxide, which is also known as laughing gas. This helps many children relax during their procedure.
Conscious sedation is also commonly used. We use it on children who are really afraid of the dentist. It is also helpful for young children who won’t sit still and children with special needs.
Dental fear can be crippling. Using general anesthesia, we can make the procedure go much more smoothly. It may even be the difference between having the treatment that your child deserves and doing nothing. If your child’s dental condition is left untreated, your child may have to live with pain in the mouth, infection, and swelling. Your child may have trouble developing adult teeth. If an infection continues to grow, it can travel throughout the bloodstream, making your child very sick.
There are many forms of sedation to help your child through his or her appointment. Your comfort is our utmost concern. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us today (702) 633-8331.
