Sedation Can Help With Children’s Dental Anxiety

Sedation Can Help With Children’s Dental Anxiety from Hudson Valley Pediatric Dentistry in Middletown, NYThe fact is even adults feel anxious when trying something they have never tried before, like dental sedation. Children are no different, and they tend to feel nervous on the first visit to the dentist. For some children, this dental anxiety continues throughout childhood, and it may be worse for more invasive procedures. In this case, dental sedation can help alleviate anxiety during procedures.

Sedation for dealing with dental anxiety in pediatric dentistry

This review discusses dental sedation to help alleviate dental anxiety in pediatric dentistry, highlighting what children’s dental anxiety is exactly, how sedation is used in pediatric dentistry, and when it might be recommended.

What is children’s dental anxiety?

Children’s dental anxiety is an often irrational fear of visiting the pediatric dentist in younger patients. The cause of dental anxiety is different for every child. Common causes include a fear of being judged, fear of pain during procedures, or simply a child that is less comfortable and shy around people they do not know as well. Children’s dental anxiety is usually minor, but it can worsen into a dental phobia or linger into the child’s teenage and adult years if not dealt with at an early age.

What is sedation in pediatric dentistry?

Dental sedation, also called sedation dentistry or sleep dentistry, is the use of medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. There are different types of sedation used in a pediatric dentist's office, which are nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation. For pediatric dentists, in particular, nitrous oxide (which is also called “laughing gas”) is preferred as it is safer and not as scary for children with dental anxiety.

When might a dentist recommend sedation for dental anxiety?

Of course, more invasive procedures such as tooth extraction or baby root canal require the use of sedation to help the child feel comfortable during treatment. However, for children with dental anxiety, dental sedation may also be recommended for less invasive procedures as well so that they can feel calm and comfortable during the procedure.

Is sedation safe for children?

Sedation in pediatric dentistry is safe for children when provided by a dental professional. There are some risks associated with sedation, although side effects are rare and typically mild and short-lived when they do occur.

What can my child expect when sedation is used?

Each type of sedation is administered differently. As mentioned, nitrous oxide is the most common type of sedation for children. This involves wearing a dental mask that released nitrous oxide, which produces a calming sensation for the child and may even give them an urge to laugh or feel funny (hence the name).

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Pediatric Dentist in Middletown, NY

Call us today for more information or to schedule a visit

Here at our pediatric dental practice, we pride ourselves on creating a fun and welcoming environment for children that helps minimize anxiety. We also offer sedation dentistry as well. To learn more and schedule a visit with our dental team, give us a call at a time that is convenient for you.

Request an appointment or call Hudson Valley Pediatric Dentistry at 845-363-4177 for an appointment in our Middletown office.

Recent Posts

Effective Options For Cavity Treatment For Kids

Cavity treatment for kids is essential for a child’s oral health. Dental decay can cause discomfort, causing the child to lose focus at school. It can even result in low self-esteem and malnutrition. Treating cavities can improve your child’s general health. Here are effective techniques for cavity treatment for kids.There are cases when fillings cannot…

Essential Tips For Children's Tooth Care: A Parent's Guide

Parents play a crucial role in their children's tooth care by ensuring their children get started on the right path to optimal dental health. This involves overseeing children's tooth care at home while also helping them develop healthy dental habits and ensuring they see a pediatric dentist regularly.Parents will need to keep their child's mouth…

Preventive Procedures In Pediatric Dentistry

Just like adults, children need preventive dental care — that is where pediatric dentistry comes in. Many parents believe that their child's teeth are healthy simply because their child is young. The truth is that oral health issues are as prevalent in kids as much as adults. Since they love sugary treats, the risk of…

Recent Posts

Tips For Oral Hygiene Basics

4 Tips For Oral Hygiene Basics

A healthy smile requires a lifetime of focusing on oral hygiene basics. Even if your child has healthy teeth and a history of proper dental care, reviewing best practices helps maintain good daily habits. During your child's routine teeth cleaning, a pediatric dentist can help answer any questions about caring for their teeth. In the…

Oral Hygiene Basics: Bad Habits To Avoid

Oral Hygiene Basics: Bad Habits To Avoid

A firm understanding of oral hygiene basics can prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and general oral discomfort. Kids develop a range of habits that impact oral health, some of which are good and some of which can be damaging. Avoiding these damaging behaviors helps promote strong teeth and gums that can last a lifetime.Being proactive…