When it comes to dental care, the idea of giving sedative drugs to children can make parents nervous. Parents frequently ask if a simple dental procedure is worthwhile. Isn't that taking things too far? Shouldn't they let their kids get used to going to the dentist on their own?
Sedation and anesthesia, without a doubt, should be taken very seriously. When used sparingly and under the supervision of experienced and trained medical professionals, these procedures are safe for children.
Sedatives can play a key role in providing children with necessary and critical dental healthcare.
Benefits of Dental Sedation for Children
For some children, going to the dentist can be a very stressful and frightening experience. At the dentist's office, they are confronted with a variety of unfamiliar sights, sounds, and smells that can be overwhelming! Many people, unfortunately, carry these negative childhood experiences into adulthood and develop dental phobias.
When it comes to treating these anxious children without causing them further distress and providing them with a positive dental experience, sedation can be extremely beneficial.
Positive early dental experiences can often pave the way for these children to develop a healthy, confident approach to dental care as they grow older. As a result, you may enjoy better oral health for the rest of your life!
What Sedation Options Are There?
Below, we list the three most common sedation options.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous Oxide is a sedative that is mixed with oxygen and administered to patients. If patients are anxious, nervous, or afraid, it can help them relax. Parents should be aware that the use of Nitrous Oxide does not impair a patient's reflexes or render them unconscious.
Oral Conscious Sedation
A variety of medications can be used to achieve oral conscious sedation. Our Toronto dentists can help you choose the best oral conscious sedation option for your child, and they'll be happy to answer any questions you have.
While oral conscious sedation does not usually render a patient unconscious, it can make them sleepy enough to allow them to sleep through the procedure. After the sedation wears off, many patients have no recollection of their dental procedure.
General Anesthesia
To render a patient unconscious, general anesthesia is used. Patients with limited comprehension, serious behavioural challenges, and/or high pain sensitivity are usually candidates for anesthesia.
Our team of dental professionals prioritizes quality dental care for your children with utmost safety and comfort, always.