Find out if sedation dentistry is the right approach to making your child’s next dental visit easier.
Does your child throw tantrums the minute you mention the dentist? Is it difficult for your child to sit still for any period of time? If so, getting dental care, whether a regular checkup or a dental filling, may be almost impossible. Fortunately, our Weston, FL, pediatric dentist, Dr. Yedda Gomes-Ruane, offers sedation dentistry, which can be a great way to relax your little one so that they can get the proper dental care they need without all the stress.
What types of sedation are available?
The two most common types of sedation include oral sedation and inhalation sedation. Oral sedation is not meant to put your child to sleep, but it will help to ease their fears, help them stay relaxed and may even cause them to feel drowsy during their treatment.
Your child will be instructed to take this oral medication about one hour before their procedure, and our Weston children’s dentist will want to make sure that there is a parent or guardian there who can safely take them home after their treatment, as the effects of oral sedation can last a couple of hours.
Another sedation option is inhalation sedation, better known as nitrous oxide (or laughing gas). Instead of taking a pill, we will apply a facemask over your child’s face and administer a calming, steady stream of nitrous oxide into your child’s nose and mouth. This will instantly relax them. Once the mask is removed, the effects wear off immediately so your child could potentially return to their daily routine after treatment.
Who is sedation dentistry right for?
While the idea of having a more comfortable and easy trip to your child’s dentist might sound like music to your ears, it’s important that you understand that sedation dentistry might not be right for every child. Sedation dentistry is a great option if your child:
- Is extremely anxious, fearful or stressed whenever going to the dentist
- Has trouble sitting still or has ADD or ADHD
- Has to undergo multiple procedures or has to sit in the dentist’s chair for an extended period of time
- Has a sensitive gag reflex or other physical issues that may make it uncomfortable to sit in one position at length
Dentistry for Children at Weston is dedicated to providing children throughout the Weston, FL, area with gentle, compassionate dentistry. If you want to find out more about sedation dentistry and whether it’s the right option for your child, give our office a call today.