Sedation dentistry is an effective means to help children relax during dental procedures. It makes use of medications that can be calming for the child and help enhance cooperation by reducing anxiety or discomfort associated with dental treatment.

You can consult Dr Steve Duke and Dr Craig Van Alfen from Focus Dental Group in Midvale, Utah to know about safe and effective dental sedation options that works for your child.

Meanwhile, let’s take a look at sedative options available out there.

Types of Sedation

Various sedation techniques available with your dentist could include:

• Nitrous Oxide Sedation

This makes use of a combination of nitrous oxide and oxygen. The child inhales this through the mask. With nitrous oxide, the child doesn’t lose consciousness and creates a calming effect throughout the procedure.

This is safe for children. However, if your child has difficulty wearing a mask or understanding instructions, there are other sedation options to consider.

• Mild to Moderate Sedation 

This involves taking a prescribed sedative medication orally before the procedure. This oral mode may calm the child or make them drowsy thereby allowing the dentist to complete the dental procedure with ease.

• Deep Sedation

This option involves administering a sedative through a vein. Deep sedation is used for elaborate dental procedures. It helps the child stay relaxed for a longer time. Since sedatives are administered through an IV route, a dentist is able to regulate the level of sedation needed for the dental procedure.

• General Anesthesia

General anesthesia is the last resort in case the other options do not help the child stay calm. This procedure puts the child to sleep to deliver pain-free treatment. Specially trained anaesthesia professionals administer medications and monitor your child while a dentist performs the procedure.

Things to Remember 

To ensure that your child has the best possible experience, do the following things:

• Inform the dentist about all or any medications your child is consuming
• No solid foods for your child before sedation
• Carry your child’s favorite toy to comfort them
• It’s normal for your child to feel groggy, nauseated, and sometimes uncontrolled giggling after sedation
• Rest and hydration after the dental procedure is important

For more queries or assistance regarding dental sedation for your children, you can contact our clinic Focus Dental Group at (801) 255-7101 or you can visit us at 6770 S 900 E Suite 301, Midvale, Utah 84047.