The History of Dentistry

Dental Anxiety: 2 Ways a Dentist May Sedate Your Child

13 December 2016

Regina Carlson

If your child has to have dental treatment and they are very anxious about it, the dentist may recommend that they are sedated. If your child is anxious, they may wriggle and move around making it difficult for the dentist to carry out their work. Because sedation allows your child to remain fully conscious during treatment, you and the dentist will be able to interact with them to offer reassurance. Below is a guide to two common sedation techniques which your dentist may use on your child.

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide is sometimes called laughing gas because, at low doses, it can trigger euphoria. It is typically used in cases of mild anxiety. The dentist will place a mask over your child's face. The mask is supplied with a mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide. Your child will be instructed to breathe normally so that they inhale the gas. The gas will start to have an effect in a matter of seconds. You will notice that your child becomes more relaxed as their body absorbs the gas. Once the gas has taken effect, the dentist will remove the mask and begin work. Nitrous oxide is extremely safe and is naturally eliminated from the body. Once the dental work is complete, the dentist will reattach the mask to administer oxygen to help eliminate the gas from your child's blood.

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation is used for cases of acute anxiety for which nitrous oxide does not provide adequate relief. Your dentist will prescribe a benzodiazepine drug with instructions for you to administer it to your child shortly before your scheduled appointment. The type of medication used will depend on a number of factors, such as:

• The level of anxiety
• Your child's ability to cooperate
• The nature of your child's treatment

Once the procedure is completed, it can take some time for the effect of the medication to wear off, so you should keep a close eye on your child as they may be clumsy or disorientated. You may need to wait in the dentist office for a short time after the treatment is completed so that the dentist or nurse can monitor your child.

If you have any questions or concerns about the types of sedation used as part of dental treatments, you should contact your local dentist today. They will be happy to discuss your options and needs for your child.

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