Is your child nervous about visiting the dentist for an upcoming procedure? Perhaps you’ve heard about sedation dentistry being used as a method to help keep them calm and relaxed. Just like any parent, you may be concerned about the use of sedation for dental procedures at a kids dentist in Houston. What are the risks? How safe is it? What does sedation dentistry in Houston entail?
Risks of Sedation Dentistry
The main risks from sedation dentistry stem from the side effects. Patients, both children and adult, may experience dizziness, nausea, and sleepiness after using sedation.
As a result, the patient should not return to work or school right after a procedure. The best course of action is to return home and rest.
How Safe is Sedation Dentistry in Houston?
Above all else, sedation dentistry is very safe. In order for a dental office to use sedation, the dentist or an anesthesiologist must be certified in the use of sedatives.
The amount of qualifications is even greater for sedation dentistry for kids. Sedation dentistry for a kid’s dentist in Houston requires more stringent standards to ensure proper dosage for children.
The use of sedation dentistry in Houston is constantly monitored and adjusted throughout a procedure by the dentist or an anesthetist. The ensures the use of only the minimum amount necessary.
What Are the Common Sedatives in Sedation Dentistry?
There are a few methods for sedation dentistry in Houston.
First, there is an oral sedative. This small pill is taken prior to going to the dentist and usually results in the child feeling more relaxed, but still fully awake.
They are primarily for non-invasive procedures where anxiety is the only factor.
Another sedative is Nitrous oxide or laughing gas, which helps children who are fairly anxious or are getting a slightly more invasive procedure, such as a filling.
Nitrous oxide is often the most common sedative. It both relaxes the patient and dulls the sensation of discomfort during the procedure.
Lastly, there is IV sedation. This is the strongest form of sedation, but it can run the gamut between light sedation and putting the patient under, depending on the amount used.
IV sedation is usually reserved for the most invasive procedures, such as operations on the gums and teeth. It can, however, be used for lesser procedures with patients who have a low tolerance for pain.
