Sedation Dentistry Options For Children and Adults

Sedation dentistry, sometimes referred to as ‘sleep dentistry’ refers to the dental practice of using medication such as Laughing gas to help patients feel relaxed during a dental procedure to curb dental anxiety. Sedation dentistry is rapidly becoming a common practice and for the right reasons. Here at Springvale Dental Clinic, we use different types of sedation to help our patients relaxed during their dental appointments. However, some parents may have concerns as to whether sedation dentistry is safe for children. Since children suffer the most from dental anxiety, the application of sedation during dental procedures may just be the greatest solution to this problem. But is it safe for children?

Sedation dentistry for Children

If administered properly, sedation dentistry is normally safe for both adults and children. However, the dosage may differ depending on the age of the child, and therefore, any form of sedation should be administered accordingly to avoid unwanted side effects. At Springvale Dental Clinic, our dental experts have gone through training and experience as far as sedation dentistry is concerned, and you can be sure that you will be in safe hands when you visit our clinic.

Types of sedation

There are mainly three types of sedation used in dentistry; oral sedation, intravenous sedation, and Laughing gas sedation.

Oral sedation

Oral sedation is administered through the mouth or nose, and the patient is usually awake during the entire procedure. The patient is sedated 20 minutes before the procedure because it takes 20 minutes for the sedation to take effect.

Intravenous sedation

For this type of sedation, a needle is inserted into the patient’s vein so the sedative can go into the bloodstream. For children, Laughing gas may be administered first before the needle is inserted to avoid creating panic or anxiety before the procedure.

Laughing gas

Laughing gas, as it is commonly referred to, is one of the most common sedation options used in dentistry. It is administered through a gas mask, which releases Laughing gas and oxygen in preferred proportions to send the patient into a euphoria.

Preparing your child for sedation

Although Springvale Dental Clinic provides a child-friendly environment for the young ones, it is recommended that parents prepare their children in advance and help them understand why they are going for any dental procedure. It is also important that the parent is beside the child before, during, and after the procedure for reassurance and to provide comfort for the child.

Safety measures

At Springvale Dental Clinic, our team of experts will closely monitor a patient’s vitals such as oxygen levels, blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature to ensure everything is okay throughout the procedure. You will also be advised on what to do after the procedure to avoid any problems and after-effects.

Bottom Line: Visit us today!

Visit Springvale Dental Clinic today to learn more about Laughing gas and sedation dentistry options for children and adults. We are here to take care of your dental anxiety to ensure you and your young ones get the best oral care. Don’t let dental anxiety get in the way of your oral health.