sedation dentist in duluth
In contrast to general anesthesia (which renders the child unconscious), dental sedation is only intended to reduce the child’s anxiety and discomfort during dental visits. In some cases, the child may become drowsy or less active while sedated, but this will quickly desist after the procedure is completed.
Receiving professional dental care is vital for children to maintain their oral health. For children who strongly resist dental care, sedation is often necessary. Sedation allows children to relax and helps them cope better and cooperate, making their treatment time shorter and more successful. For children with special needs, sedation helps prevent spontaneous movement and reduces the risk of injury.
North Atlanta Kids Dentistry offers nitrous oxide (laughing gas) at our office for our young patients with dental fears.
When is sedation used?
Sedation dentist in Duluth is used in several circumstances. Firstly, very young children are often unable to keep still long enough for the pediatric sedation dentist to perform high-precision procedures safely. Sedation makes the visit less stressful for both children and adults and vastly reduces the risk of injury. Secondly, some children struggle to manage anxiety during dental appointments. Sedation helps them to relax, cope, and feel happier about treatment. Thirdly, sedation is particularly useful for children with special needs. It prevents spontaneous movement, and guides cooperative behavior.
What are the most common types of sedation?
Most pediatric dentists have several sedation options available, and each one comes with its own particular benefits. The dentist will assess the medical history of the child, the expected duration of the procedure, and the child’s comfort level before recommending a method of sedation.
Conscious sedation allows children to continually communicate, follow instructions, and cooperate during the entire procedure. The major methods of conscious sedation are described below:
Nitrous oxide - The pediatric dentist may recommend nitrous oxide (more commonly known as “laughing gas”) for children who exhibit particular signs of nervousness or anxiety. Nitrous oxide is delivered via a mask, which is placed over the child’s nose. Nitrous oxide is always combined with oxygen – meaning that the child can comfortably breathe in through the nose and out through the mouth.
Laughing gas relaxes children extremely quickly, and can produce happy, euphoric behavior. It is also quick acting, painless to deliver, and wears off within a matter of minutes. Before removing the mask completely, the pediatric dentist delivers regular oxygen for several minutes, to ensure the nitrous oxide is eliminated from the child’s body. On rare occasions, nitrous oxide may cause nausea. For this reason, most Duluth pediatric sedation dentists suggest minimal food intake prior to the appointment.
Oral sedation - Children who are uncooperative, particularly anxious, or unable to control their muscles for prolonged periods, may be offered an oral sedative. Oral sedatives come in many different forms (usually tablets, pills, and liquids), and may make the child feel drowsy. If oral sedatives are to be used, the pediatric sedation dentist may require parents to prepare the child before the appointment. Some common preparatory measures may include: limiting food and fluid intake prior to the appointment, having the child wear comfortable clothing to the appointment, and preparing to stay with the child for several hours after the appointment. Oral sedatives rarely produce serious side effects; nausea is among the most common.
Other forms of conscious sedation - Other less common ways to administer sedatives include intravenous (IV sedation), the use of suppositories, and even the use of a nasal spray. In most cases, the method of delivery may change, but the chemical nature of the sedative remains the same.
What about general anesthetic?
General anesthetic (which puts the child in a deep sleep), is rarely used in dental work unless:
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A procedure cannot otherwise be performed safely.
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The child has a condition which limits cooperation or the ability to follow instructions.
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The child needs a lengthy treatment.
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The child needs more complex dental treatment or oral surgery.
General anesthetic requires more intensive preparation before the treatment and a longer period of recovery after the sedation treatment in Duluth. Conscious sedation is usually favored wherever possible.
If you have questions or concerns about sedation techniques, please contact our practice.
Don’t Let Anxiety Keep Your Kids From Visiting Dentist
It’s imperative that your child’s smile is examined regularly and that any necessary treatment is performed. Nitrous oxide is a safe method of sedation dentist Duluth for kids and will promote a positive experience and more confidence when they return.
How Does Nitrous Oxide Work?
Nitrous oxide is a gas that is delivered through a mask. Our hygienist makes a game out of counting with your child, and in no time they are happy yet alert enough to communicate with the Duluth sedation dentist.
The effects of nitrous are short-acting and don’t leave kids groggy. They can remember their experience and begin building trust in our compassionate and gentle dental team.
We provide nitrous oxide because we are committed to helping preserve kids’ teeth and gums and making each visit fun and comfortable. We understand the importance of regular dental care as it relates to children’s oral and overall health and successful dental development. If you have any further concerns or questions about sedation, give our office a call and schedule a consultation today. We enjoy getting to know each child and creating a healthy smile that reflects their unique personality.