Sedation Dentistry
When a child is anxious about visiting the dentist or is about to undergo an uncomfortable dental procedure, sedation dentistry is available to help. Sedation dentistry involves the use of sedation to make dental procedures more comfortable for patients. If your child is going to see the pediatric dentist in New Orleans, LA, sedation can help make the procedure a better, safer experience. If your child is a good candidate for sedation dentistry, the dental professionals at Uptown Pediatric Dentistry can talk to you about the sedation dentistry options available.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry in Pediatric Dental Care
Some children can’t sit still for the dentist. Many procedures require the patient to be still for their safety. Sedation makes this possible. Sedation dentistry is used in special needs dentistry, during long procedures, and for children with dental anxiety. Benefits include:
- Sedation dentistry helps young patients sit still for their dental procedures.
- Sedation dentistry can help children overcome the fear of the dentist.
- Sedation makes long, complex dental procedures less complicated.
What Is Sedation Dentistry in New Orleans, LA?
Sedation dentistry is the use of sedation during a dental procedure. There are several different types of sedation that dentists can use for children. Below are some examples of the types of sedation that the dentist at Uptown Pediatric Dentistry may recommend for your child.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide is a colorless gas that the dentist gives to the patient via a mask. The patient wears a mask throughout the procedure. Nitrous oxide doesn’t stop pain, but it can make the patient calm and indifferent to pain. Many patients experience a feeling of euphoria when they breathe in nitrous oxide.
Nitrous oxide is one of the most popular forms of sedation dentistry because it wears off when the gas is turned off. Nitrous doesn’t put the patient to sleep, although patients may get very drowsy. It’s safe and isn’t metabolized by the body, so it’s expelled when it’s breathed out again. If your child has dental anxiety, nitrous oxide can provide a pleasant experience.
Conscious Sedation
Conscious sedation is a form of sedation that we offer for patients with moderate anxiety. If your child takes conscious sedation, they’ll likely remain awake, but this will provide a greater level of pain control and relaxation. Your child will take conscious sedation in the form of a liquid that they can drink. Once the appointment is over, your child may be extra groggy and relaxed for a while.
Why Sedation Dentistry?
For some patients, sedation dentistry makes dental care possible. Not all patients are comfortable in the dentist’s chair. Sedation makes it easier to complete important dental procedures to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
What to Expect With Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide is the most common form of sedation dentistry for good reason! It’s easy to use and administer. Here is what your child can expect when they’re getting nitrous oxide with the dentist:
- The dentist will administer the laughing gas through a mask. The dental professional will adjust the mask until it’s comfortable.
- During the procedure, your child will feel sleepy and dreamy. They will feel very relaxed and euphoric. Their hands or feet may tingle.
- Staff will monitor your child’s level of sedation throughout the procedure.
- If your child needs local anesthesia to reduce their discomfort during the procedure, this will be administered.
- Your child will be observed for a brief period after the nitrous oxide is turned off. Nitrous oxide wears off very quickly, and when the procedure is over, your child should soon be ready to leave.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry
What are the side effects of nitrous oxide?
Many children do not experience side effects from nitrous oxide. Some children may feel a little nauseated. Children who throw up after nitrous oxide should drink water or liquids to avoid dehydration.
Are there alternatives to nitrous oxide?
Not every child needs sedation during their dental appointment. Talk to your child’s dentist to find out if your child is a good candidate for nitrous oxide.
Will nitrous oxide make my child laugh?
Nitrous oxide is called “laughing gas” because it makes people feel giddy or euphoric. However, most children do not laugh when they breathe in laughing gas. Instead, nitrous oxide leaves children feeling a deep sense of calm and relaxation. This does not make them laugh.
Does nitrous oxide stop my child from feeling pain or discomfort?
Nitrous oxide does not stop pain or discomfort. However, it may make your child indifferent to discomfort. If your child is expected to feel pain during their dental procedure, then the dentist will use a local anesthetic to help your child stay comfortable during their appointment. This, combined with sedation dentistry, should help your child have a pleasant dental appointment.
Is sedation safe?
Sedation dentistry is safe when administered by trained dental professionals. The staff at Uptown Pediatric Dentistry are trained to help children safely administer sedation to pediatric patients.
Is my child a good candidate for sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is helpful for children with dental anxiety, who have difficulty sitting still due to their age, or who are about to undergo a complex dental procedure. Sedation dentistry is also a good option for children who have a strong gag reflex.
If you think your child is a good candidate for sedation dentistry, talk to your child’s dentist. Sedation dentistry is a good option for children who have dental anxiety, and it can help your child have a more positive experience with the dentist. Don’t hesitate to ask!
Which type of sedation is best for my child?
The type of sedation that is best for your child will depend on your child’s unique situation. The dentist will recommend the best sedation type for the circumstances.
Does Your Child Need Sedation Dentistry?
If your child needs sedation dentistry, an experienced pediatric dentist in New Orleans, LA, can help. This is why patients turn to us. Call today.
