How Safe Is Sleep Dentistry for Kids

Sleep dentistry is a term used to describe general anaesthesia being used on patients in the dentist chair. However, the trauma associated with sleep dentistry is often an area of concern, especially when we talk about dental care for kids. Let’s find out in this blog.

Sleep Dentistry for Children
There are different types of sleep dentistry including, general anaesthetics, intravenous sedation (or known as twilight sedation) and Nitrous Oxide (happy gas). Children as young as four can go through all these types of sedation.

General anaesthesia is generally considered safe when performed under the observation of a qualified dentist. However, there are some risks associated which parents must take into consideration when allowing their children to be sedated.

To relax patients, dentists use less intrusive form of sedation. Sometimes, they also just put a TV show to relax, calm and make them comfortable.

When Is Sleep Dentistry Required for Children
Children are easily able to recall traumatic experiences. For example: If a child going for tooth extraction is traumatized, he/she will most likely to develop a long term phobia about dentists. This, in turn, will result in lifelong dental complications.

So, how to identify if your child is just anxious or their experience in the chair will leave them with long lasting trauma.

Dentists will take care of children and identify their situation to help parents make an informed decision. Some kids cope easily while some have the scariest experiences. This is where sleep dentistry turns out to be useful.

A simple procedure followed under sleep dentistry will wake up children with no memory of the treatment, be it frightening or traumatic.

Should Kids Be Sedated?
Apart from the factors given above, experience also counts. Not able to choose the right dentist having proper knowledge of drugs may lead to problems.

Moderate sedation, also known as conscious sedation requires vigilance than minimal sedation. However, deep sedation and general anesthesia using an IV should be administered only by qualified anaesthesia providers.

The best you could do is consult a pediatric dentist because they are well aware of the techniques to handle kids. Other than this, parents should be informed of the risks, benefits and alternatives so that they are fully prepared.

If you have questions or concerns about sedation techniques, please contact our pediatric dentist. They are knowledgeable and trained on dealing with the aspects of sedation dentistry. So, do not let the smile of your child fade away, get in touch with our dentists today.

Book Appointment to find out which treatment might be best for you.