What is Sedation Dentistry?
If the dental procedure is long, complex or if a patient experiences dental anxiety, a dentist will administer a drug before or during the dental procedure for the patient’s comfort and peace of mind. Most forms of sedation used in dentistry aim to keep you relaxed and calm throughout the procedure, with the least amount of pain.
At Corner Cove Dental, we understand that parents may be hesitant to have their children sedated for a dental procedure. We understand your concern and want you to know that all our patients’ safety is a top concern for us and sedating a patient, young or old, is normally a very safe procedure.
Types of Sedation
Our practice uses either oral or nitrous oxide sedation on our patients.
Oral Sedation
Sedation medication in the form of a pill, which is swallowed, or gas that is inhaled is administered as soon as the patient arrives at the dentist appointment. The medicine usually takes up to 20 minutes to take effect. Oral sedation doesn’t put your child to sleep, but it helps them stay calm and relaxed.
Nitrous Oxide
This gas, also known as laughing gas, helps keep children calm. Once your child is in the dentist’s chair, a mask will be placed over their nose and mouth, which administers a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen. Within five minutes, the patient will feel relaxed. Once the procedure is completed, pure oxygen is administered to your child through the mask to clear away the effects of the nitrous oxide.
Throughout the period that your child is sedated, their blood oxygen level, blood pressure, temperature and heart rate are closely monitored.
What to Expect After Sedation
Your child may feel confused or nauseous after being sedated. It is recommended that two adults accompany the child on the journey back home; one adult drives while the other monitors the child. Your child should not go back to school after a procedure that required sedation, as other after effects of sedation include loss of physical coordination, dizziness, sleepiness and nausea. Parents are also advised to only feed their children soft food after a sedation.
If your child experiences vomiting, severe pain, severe bleeding, or a fever, you should contact the dentist immediately.
At Corner Cove Dental, our professional staff guarantee a fuss-free sedation procedure with the right preparation and proper care.