When your child needs dental work that requires sedation, it can be terrifying for both of you. Here's what you need to know about dental sedation for kids.

Why Do Kids Need Pediatric Dental Sedation?

Your child might need dental sedation for several reasons. The first determination is the type of procedure getting completed. Some procedures can cause more discomfort, and sedation can help decrease that. 

Some dental procedures requiring sedation could include tooth extractions, root canals, and more. Another factor is your child's age. If your child is a toddler who needs extensive restoration work that might require multiple visits without sedation, then sedation should get considered. 

The following reason your child might get sedation is because of their anxiety surrounding their procedure. Some pediatric dental treatments can cause a lot of fear in our tiniest patients, and sedation can help with that anxiety. 



If your child has a behavioral disorder or special needs, they might require sedation as well. Sedation can help calm them so that your pediatric dentist can safely care for their teeth. 

Benefits of Dental Sedation in Pediatric Dentistry

There are a variety of benefits to dental sedation for children. These benefits will help improve you and your child's experience at the dentist.

Stress-Free

When your child gets stressed, you get stressed. Dental sedation can help your child relax and make things less stressful for you. 

Reduced Pain

Some dental procedures can feel painful. However, when your child gets sedated, it will help dull or eliminate pain during the procedure. 



Time

Some procedures take longer and are more complex. Instead of having to go into the office for multiple procedures, everything can get done in one visit when utilizing dental sedation. 

This will save you time. 

Safety

Is your child likely to move around or struggle during a procedure? If so, dental sedation can help keep them safe from accidental injuries. 

What Types of Dental Sedation Do Kids Get?

When it comes to dental sedation for kids, what are the options? Options are determined based in part on the dentist you visit. Different dentists may or may not use some types of sedation. 

There are a few types of sedation treatment for children having a dental procedure completed. 

Oral Conscious Sedation

With this type of sedation, your dentist will prescribe an oral sedative. The oral sedative can provide mild to moderate sedation. The level of sedation is dependent on the medication and the dosage given. 

With this type of sedation, your child will be awake during the dental procedure. Your child will also be able to move and respond to commands. However, they could fall asleep. 

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide is commonly referred to as "laughing gas." It won't put your child to sleep, and it will wear off quickly. 

Nitrous oxide is delivered to your child through a mask. They spend a few minutes breathing it in, and it helps your kiddo feel calm, relaxed, euphoric, and maybe a little sleepy. In addition, nitrous oxide will aid in dulling discomfort for your child. 

Your child will have the ability to respond to commands and be awake. After the procedure, they will be given plain oxygen to breathe in, and after a few minutes, the effects of the nitrous oxide wear off. 

General Anesthesia



The first thing to keep in mind is that there is a difference between sedation and anesthesia. The key difference between the two is the degree of consciousness.

Under anesthesia, you are in a medically induced state of unconsciousness. If your child does need anesthesia for a dental procedure, they are admitted to the hospital and under the care of professionals trained explicitly for pediatric anesthesiology. 

However, with sedation, you are in a sleep-like state. Under sedation, you're generally unaware of your surroundings; however, you might still respond to external stimuli.

Is Dental Sedation Safe for Kids?

Yes, dental sedation is safe for kids. However, you do want to ensure that you're utilizing a dentist that is experienced and uses the latest techniques and technology.

Does Dental Sedation Have Side Effects?

Dental sedation side effects are in part dependent on the type of sedation received. Make sure you discuss the specific options with your pediatric dentist and any possible side effects.

Keep in mind different children will respond differently to the different types of sedation. 

Nitrous Oxide Side Effects

Most people will not experience any side effects from nitrous oxide. However, if you inhale too much, it can cause some short-term dizziness and vomiting. 

Make sure you go to a dentist who utilizes technology that can prevent this from happening. Your child might feel tired after this type of sedation, but it should wear off quickly. 

However, there are no long-term side effects of nitrous oxide. 

Side Effects of General Anesthesia Sedation

After anesthesia, your child will probably be tired for up to a day afterward. Their mouth, nose, and throat could be numb for around 45 minutes after the dental procedure. 

Other potential side effects could include: 

• Sore throat
• Dizziness
• Nausea



Make sure to talk to your dentist about all potential side effects. After the procedure, your child will need to rest and engage in minimal activity; however, most children are able to go back to school or daycare the next day. 

Schedule an Appointment Today

Dental sedation can feel frightening for parents; however, choosing an experienced dentist can help ease that feeling. It's important to get your child the care they need to keep their mouth healthy, and dental sedation can help with that. 



Dentiland is here to serve your needs in Tijuana, Mexico. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for your child; we're happy to answer your questions.