How Can My Anxious Child Get the Dental Care They Need?
Even adults can get anxious to see the dentist, so it’s no surprise many children are hesitant to stop by the office and sit through an appointment due to dental anxiety. Additionally, the child needs to lie still during certain procedures, which is all but impossible when the child is very young or anxious.
Luckily, there are several types of sedation options available to make sure the child can get through these procedures without pain, discomfort, or otherwise bad experiences that will make them even more afraid of the Mission Viejo pediatric dentist.
What to Expect During the Consultation
Once the dentist takes a look at your child’s tooth and sets the treatment, they will discuss with you at length about the sedation options. This is chosen based on the child’s health, as well as the specific procedures.
Our dentists will provide you with all the information about the sedation, so you’ll be completely aware of what the process will entail. Additionally, our team is specifically trained to provide sedation to children.
Explore Your Child’s Sedation Options
Laughing Gas or Minimally Inhaled Sedation
The child inhales some nitrous oxide with oxygen, which will relax them and make them a bit giggly. This is why the gas is commonly called ‘laughing gas’ or conscious sedation. It’s a minor form of oral sedation appropriate for some more lighthearted treatments.
General Anesthesia
We do all of our general anesthesia procedures at a fully accredited surgery center – Mobisurg – and we use pediatric trained medical anesthesiologist for all procedures.
Sedation Dentistry FAQs
Understanding how sedation affects your child
Can I choose the type of sedation I receive for my procedure?
While many patients assume the dentist selects the sedation method, Dr. De Lorme involves you in the decision. Your comfort level, medical history, anxiety level, and the complexity of the procedure all factor into choosing between nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation. You can discuss your concerns and preferences during your consultation, allowing for a tailored approach that supports your safety and emotional comfort.
Is sedation dentistry available for preventive treatments like exams or cleanings?
Yes, if your anxiety is significant enough that it prevents you from attending routine appointments, sedation dentistry can be utilized for cleanings and exams. This is especially helpful for individuals who have experienced past trauma, heightened sensitivity, or psychological barriers to care. Dr. De Lorme will evaluate whether light sedation, such as nitrous oxide, can be used safely to keep you calm even during preventive procedures.
Will sedation completely remove my awareness of what’s happening?
Not necessarily. Sedation levels vary. With oral conscious sedation or nitrous oxide, you will remain responsive and may remember portions of the procedure, but you’ll be significantly more relaxed and less anxious. If deeper sedation is needed, such as IV sedation, you may have little to no memory of the visit. The goal is not to “knock you out” but to manage discomfort and fear while keeping you safe and monitored.
How does Dr. De Lorme monitor patients during sedation?
Patient safety is paramount. Throughout your appointment, you will be monitored closely. This includes tracking your heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and respiration. Specialized monitoring equipment is combined with a well-trained team prepared for unexpected issues. This continuous oversight ensures you remain stable and comfortable while under sedation.
Can sedation dentistry help if I have trouble sitting still for long periods?
Absolutely. Some patients with physical discomfort, TMJ issues, or neurodivergent traits find it difficult to remain in a dental chair for extended procedures. Sedation can help reduce muscle tension, involuntary movements, and restlessness, making it easier to complete necessary work in a single visit. This is particularly beneficial for longer or more involved procedures like full-mouth restorations or multiple fillings.
Are there any long-term effects of dental sedation?
For most healthy patients, there are no long-term effects. The sedation medications Dr. De Lorme uses are chosen based on your medical profile and are designed to wear off within a few hours. You might feel groggy or have a “foggy” memory of the visit temporarily, but these effects typically resolve by the next day. If you take regular medications or have a history of certain medical conditions, Dr. De Lorme will consult your physician to avoid complications.
How can I prepare for a sedated dental visit?
Dr. De Lorme’s team provides detailed instructions before your appointment. You may be asked not to eat or drink for several hours beforehand. You should also plan for someone to accompany you to the appointment and drive you home afterward. Wear comfortable clothing, avoid contact lenses, and inform the team about any recent changes in your health or medications. Following these steps helps ensure that your visit goes smoothly and safely.
CAN SEDATION HELP MY ANXIOUS CHILD?
Yes, dental sedation will induce your child into a relaxed state. If they experience stress or anxiety when going to the dentist, sedation will melt away these negative feelings and replace them with a sense of calm during conscious sedation.
Laughing gas can also make children feel euphoric, giddy, and sleepy. However, they will remain awake and aware of their surroundings. They can respond to the dentist during the appointment but they will not be frightened.
For more complex or invasive procedures, your child can be put under general anesthetic, where they are totally unconscious. This means they won’t be aware of anything that is going on during the appointment because they will be asleep.
HOW DO I PREPARE MY CHILD TO BE SEDATED?
To prepare your child for minimally inhaled sedation, you only need to make sure that they fast for 2 hours leading up to their appointment. Try giving them a light breakfast such as toast and keep them hydrated.
Then, for two hours before the appointment, make sure they don’t eat or drink anything. This is to prevent the risk of nausea and vomiting. To prepare your child for general anesthesia, they will need to fast for 6 hours.
This is why these appointments are generally best scheduled for first thing in the morning. Because anesthesia causes lingering hangover effects for up to 24 hours, you will need to monitor your child for the rest of the day.
They may need help getting around the house. You should bring things to them so they don’t have to get up too much. They will likely feel very drowsy and want to rest when they get home.
CAN I BE WITH MY CHILD DURING THE SEDATED PROCEDURE?
This depends on the procedure and type of sedation that your child is receiving. You may be able to accompany your child during a minimally inhaled sedation procedure, especially if it’s a routine appointment like a dental cleaning.
However, if your child is receiving general anesthesia for an invasive procedure, this needs to be performed in the hospital by a certified anesthesiologist. You will not be permitted in the room during the procedure, especially if it’s a surgical procedure.
Don’t worry, your child’s vitals will be monitored the entire time and a breathing tube will assist with their breathing while they are unconscious. Your child’s vitals are also monitored during conscious sedation so we can ensure their heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels remain at safe and healthy levels.
If you have any questions about whether or not you can be in the room with your child during their appointment, please contact us at South OC Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics by calling (949) 581 5800.
