Sedation dentistry is a great option for young patients who experience anxiety or those requiring dental work. However, despite being safe, most parents have concerns about the road ahead. Your child’s pediatric sedation dentist will explain everything and answer any questions. Here’s what dental sedation will feel like for your little one, depending on the type used.
Nitrous Oxide Dental Sedation
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is generally the safest dental sedation, even for children. The inhaled sedative is delivered through a mask worn over your child’s nose. This gives their dental team greater control over the amount administered. The effects of laughing gas occur quickly. Your child will feel relaxed and may get a case of the giggles. Many patients report warm, heavy, or tingling sensations in their extremities. After the mask is removed, your child will feel completely normal within a few minutes. However, some children may experience temporary nausea or headaches.
Oral Conscious Dental Sedation
Oral conscious dental sedation is a bit stronger than nitrous oxide. It is a prescribed medication given to your child before their procedure. It might make your little one a bit drowsy, and they might even fall asleep. They won’t be rendered unconscious, but oral conscious sedation can cause memory loss effects. It can take a few hours for the effects of the medication to dissipate. Therefore, your child will need to take it easy for the day. By morning, they should feel back to their normal self.
IV Dental Sedation
IV dental sedation is reserved for specific situations, like oral surgery. The medication is delivered through an IV, which allows the dentist to control the amount administered. Your child will sleep through their appointment and won’t remember much of their visit. It will take many hours for the effects to wear off, so they’ll need to rest for the remainder of the day.
No matter the type of sedation used, your child will be monitored closely by their dental team. With a qualified sedation dentist, there are few risks of serious complications.
About Dr. Dean
Dr. Dean earned his dental degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and achieved his certificate in pediatric dentistry from the Texas A&M College of Dentistry. He is a proud member of several professional organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the Texas Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Request an appointment online or call his office at (972) 634-0699.
