What to Expect Before, During, and After Sedation Dentistry for Kids

Sedation can be a helpful tool in pediatric dentistry. It may be used to help children relax or to make lengthy and invasive procedures easier to tolerate. Through medically induced relaxation techniques, varying levels of consciousness can be achieved according to each individual case. 

If your child has an upcoming appointment that will include sedation, you may be wondering what it will be like. Here’s what to expect before, during, and after sedation dentistry. 

Types of Sedation 

There are various types of sedation used in pediatric dentistry. Each works differently and provides varying levels of sedation. 

• Nitrous oxide: a gas that is administered through a mask placed over the nose. As the child breathes this special blend of gases they feel more calm and relaxed. The arms and legs may feel heavy and there may be a tingling sensation in the fingers and toes. 
• Conscious oral sedation: an oral sedative can be taken prior to the dental appointment. It may come in a pill or liquid form. The child will feel relaxed and maybe a little sleepy, but they will still be fully conscious. 
• IV sedation: medication can be administered directly into a vein for a precisely controlled level of sedation. The child will be conscious, but more deeply sedated than with nitrous oxide and oral sedatives. They most likely won’t remember anything about the procedure afterwards. 
• General anesthesia: the deepest level of sedation possible. The child will be completely unconscious and carefully monitored in a hospital setting. This is typically used for out-patient procedures that are lengthy or complex. 

Which Option is Right for My Child?

The type of sedation recommended by your dentist will be determined based on the type of procedure and your child’s individual needs. For more invasive procedures and oral surgeries, IV sedation or general anesthesia may be best. For simpler, shorter procedures most children will do well with nitrous oxide or an oral sedative. 

How to Prepare for Sedation 

Your dentist will provide instructions for preparation prior to your child’s procedure. For IV sedation and general anesthesia, the child will need to avoid eating for 12 hours before the appointment. Explain the procedure to your child in a comforting way, without going into too much detail. Answer their questions without inciting fear or anxiety about what will happen. 

Recovery After Sedation 

The recovery experience will be different for each procedure and each type of sedation. Generally speaking, you can expect the following: 

• Nitrous oxide: wears off in a matter of minutes after the nose mask is removed. Children can resume their normal daily activities as long as the procedure itself does not require more careful rest. 
• Conscious oral sedation: takes a few hours to wear off. Your child may need to rest for the remainder of the day until they feel normal again. 
• IV sedation: leaves the child sleepy or groggy for a few hours following the procedure. The child will need to rest at home for the remainder of the day and possibly the next day. 
• General anesthesia: will require 24-48 hours to recover, possibly longer depending on the type of procedure and your child’s personal recovery time. 

Be sure to follow your dentist’s instructions for after care and diet. Contact your doctor if your child exhibits any abnormal post-operative symptoms. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry 

Is sedation safe for my child?

Sedation is generally safe for most children. A complete medical history will be gathered prior to the procedure and the child’s vitals are carefully monitored throughout. If your child has special health needs, approval from your primary care physician may be required. 

Can I stay in the room with my child during the procedure?

In some cases you will be able to stay with your child during their procedure and in some cases you may not. When it comes to certain procedures, you can be in the room until they are fully sedated and return before they wake up. 

At Kids and Teens Dental Place we use sedation when appropriate to make treatment more relaxing and comfortable for children. Our comprehensive services are designed to meet the individual oral health needs of each child. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.