A child’s first dental visit can be exciting but also intimidating—and a first impression can be a lasting one. It is understandable if your child is a little apprehensive about their first—or next—dental appointment.
We want to help with that. Supporting your child’s comfort for each of their dental experiences is part of what motivates us as paediatric dentists. With advancements in sedation dentistry, we can help provide your child with the calm and enjoyable dental experience they deserve.
The types of sedation dentistry available for kids include:
- nitrous oxide (laughing gas)
- oral conscious sedation (oral medication combined with laughing gas)
- general anaesthesia (as in-patient & out-patient hospital procedures)
When you visit us for dental care, we can help you determine which type of sedation may be right for your child.
Why Choose Sedation Dentistry for Your Child?
If your child feels anxious about going to the dentist for whatever reason, whether they have dental anxiety, need extensive dental work done, or have other needs, sedation dentistry may be an option that can help them feel comfortable.
Helping your child feel comfortable and relaxed is an important part of the care we provide. By using medication to help your child feel at ease, we can provide the care and support they may need—and help ease potential worries about future dental experiences.
What Are the Different Types of Dental Sedation for Kids?
Each type of sedation dentistry can have specific benefits and drawbacks for your child. We will always take the time to speak with you and your child about your child’s needs and their feelings about visiting the dentist—so we can tailor their dental experiences for their comfort. That includes determining which type of sedation dentistry may be right for your child.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide, sometimes referred to as laughing gas, can help your child feel relaxed during their procedure. It can help reduce anxiety and dull discomfort, making it a great option for dental sedation.
This type of sedation is delivered through a mask. After breathing it in, your child can feel calm and may even feel a little bit silly. Nitrous oxide sedation is mild, safe, and can wear off quickly—so your child can often get right back to being their regular self shortly after their appointment.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral conscious sedation involves using oral medication that may be combined with nitrous oxide, which can offer mild to moderate sedation, depending on the dosage and type of medication prescribed.
With this type of sedation, your child can feel very calm but remain conscious throughout their visit.
General Anaesthesia
In some cases, if your child’s dental procedure cannot be done safely while they are awake, we may recommend general anaesthesia. While under general anaesthesia, your child will be completely asleep and they won’t be conscious for any of the procedure.
Why It Is Important for Your Child to See Their Dentist
We know you work hard to keep your child healthy, but making sure your child’s teeth are healthy goes beyond just keeping their smile bright and white. To keep your child’s oral health and overall health in check, it is important for them to see their dentist regularly.
Regular dental appointments help prevent further dental issues from affecting kids’ lives during childhood and as adults. During every exam, we will check for any early signs of oral health issues, give you and your family tips on maintaining your smiles, and provide any additional treatments you may need.
What to Do When Your Child Is Nervous About the Dentist
The nervousness around not knowing what to expect can sometimes make kids afraid of the dentist or certain dental procedures. But don’t worry! If your child is nervous about visiting the dentist, that is a completely normal thing to feel. Even some adults are nervous about going to the dentist!
Be a Model for Your Child
Helping your child manage dental anxiety can start by being a model of dental hygiene and care. When they see that their parents are less nervous about visiting the dentist and passionate about taking care of their teeth, many kids can feel more comfortable about their own dental experiences.
Visit a Paediatric Dentist
Establishing an early positive relationship with a paediatric dentist can also help kids avoid dental anxiety and encourage them to enjoy taking care of their teeth.
If your child is nervous about going to the dentist, try going to a practice with a paediatric focus, like The Children’s Dental Centre. Our team is trained to provide your child with a comfortable, relaxing, and fun dental experience, helping them get used to the dentist.
We Are Here to Answer Your Questions
Sedation dentistry can be a great option if your child is feeling a little uneasy about visiting the dentist. Our goal at The Children’s Dental Centre is to create a fun, positive, and comfortable experience for every patient who walks through our doors. When you have questions about sedation dentistry and how it can benefit your child, we are only a call away! Contact us to learn more about how sedation dentistry can help.