Can Sedation Dentistry be Used for Routine Dental Cleanings and Exams?
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Going to the dentist can be a stressful experience for children, especially if they are afraid of the unfamiliar environment or feel anxious about dental procedures. At Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry, our caring team understands that even routine dental cleanings and exams can feel overwhelming for some children, and we are proud to offer pediatric sedation dentistry to help provide a more comfortable, stress-free experience.
Our children's dentist in Lawrenceville, GA, Dr. Jeni Kong, can recommend one of several available sedation options that are both safe and effective, allowing you and your child to feel more relaxed while receiving the dental care they need. Take a closer look here at how sedation — like laughing gas — during children's dental appointments works and why it may be beneficial for your family.
What kind of dental sedation is used for kids?
Because every child's needs are unique, we offer multiple different types of sedation dentistry for kids. In addition to nitrous oxide (laughing gas), we can provide oral conscious sedation and hospital-based sedation for more complex cases. Oral conscious sedation involves giving your child an anti-anxiety medication about an hour before their appointment, which helps them stay calm and relaxed throughout the procedure.
For children who require more extensive dental work or have special healthcare needs, hospital-based sedation may be recommended. Dr. Jeni maintains privileges at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta for these situations. With hospital sedation dentistry, IV medication is used to induce a deeper level of relaxation, allowing necessary dental work to be completed safely and comfortably.
Can kids get laughing gas for a dental check-up?
Laughing gas — also known as nitrous oxide sedation — is commonly used to help children feel more relaxed during dental check-ups and teeth cleanings. Nitrous oxide is a mild sedative that works quickly to ease a child's anxiety without putting them to sleep. The gas is administered through a small mask placed over the child's nose, allowing them to breathe normally while feeling calm and content. The effects of laughing gas wear off almost immediately after the mask is removed, so your child can return to their usual activities soon after the appointment. For many children, this mild option is enough to make routine dental visits more comfortable.
When would a child need sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is typically recommended for children who have a high level of dental anxiety, difficulty sitting still, or special needs that may make traditional dental care challenging. Additionally, sedation can be useful for children who need extensive dental work, such as extractions or fillings, or for those who have had a negative experience with dental care in the past. Our team will assess your child's individual needs and discuss concerns you may have during their consultation to determine if sedation dentistry is an appropriate option for them.
How can I help my child feel comfortable at the dentist?
There are several steps you can take to help your child feel more comfortable and confident about going to the dentist, whether they'll be receiving sedation or not. Tips for helping kids relax at the dentist include:
- Talk to them about what to expect
- Use positive language
- Bring their favorite blanket or toy
- Allow them to watch a parent's or sibling's dental appointment before their own
At Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry, we go out of our way to create a welcoming, child-friendly environment that helps kids feel more relaxed. If your child still feels anxious, discussing sedation options with Dr. Jeni can ensure that they receive the care they need in the most comfortable way possible.
Give your child the gift of comfort and relaxation with pediatric sedation dentistry in Lawrenceville, GA
If your child struggles with dental anxiety or you're concerned about their ability to tolerate routine dental care, pediatric sedation dentistry may be the solution. At Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry, Lawrenceville, GA pediatric dentist Dr. Jeni Kong and our compassionate team are dedicated to making dental visits a positive experience for children of all ages. Schedule a consultation with us today to learn more about our dental sedation options for kids and how we can help your child achieve a healthy, beautiful smile in the easiest way possible.