Some Steps a Parent Can Take When a Child Needs Dental Sedation

By Blaise Breton

Sometimes one unpleasant visit to the dentist is the beginning of a pattern of fear for a child. It might have been the strange surroundings, unfamiliar people, the sight of dental instruments, or a flash of pain that was the initial cause. Sometimes this small beginning can become serious dental anxiety and fear. If ignored, this fear can develop into genuine Dental Phobia, in which the patient experiences intense fear at just the thought of a visit to the dentist.

It can be difficult to reason with young children and, often, trying to 'explain away the fear' does not work. Logic can fall by the wayside and stronger measures are needed if a procedure is necessary. Some children have developed such deep-seated fears that a dental appointment can be a very traumatizing event. Talking and calming efforts will have little effect upon these extremely apprehensive children. Dental sedation could be the answer.

If the child needs a dental procedure that will be lengthy or involved, the dentist will explain the benefits of sedation and the available options. If a child has allergies or physical ailments or conditions, the dentist must be informed. The child's physician may be contacted and a full review of the systems will be completed. If any medications are being taken, the parent should be certain the dentist is informed. If the child develops a co, ear infection, elevated temperature, or becomes ill, the dentist should be notified promptly.

Ask About Sedation

The method of sedation will be discussed with the parents so they have a complete understanding of it and the dental procedure that will be done. Parents should not be hesitant about asking questions. Dental sedation should only be done by professionals with specialized training and parents should thoroughly check their dentist's qualifications. Ask if the person who is administering the anesthesia has 'advanced airway training'. This is the training and ability to clear a child's airway and to resuscitate, if necessary.

Parents should ask about the type of sedation that will be used

• Will an intramuscular sedative be used?
• Will Nitrous Oxide be administered?
• Will an intravenous anesthesia be used?
• Parents should understand what will be done so they can reassure their child when the sedation procedure starts.

Check the Dental Operatory

A parent and, possibly the child patient, might be reassured by a look at the room where the procedure will be done. Meeting the dental personnel can take away much of the 'strangeness' of the office. This can be quite helpful to both the patient and his parents.

As a parent looks around, he should ask about the emergency equipment that is available.

• Is oxygen on hand?
• Are there masks, airways, and intubation equipment on hand? Ask!
• Is there suction equipment?
• Are there emergency drugs on hand in pediatric dosages? Ask!
• Is there blood pressure monitoring equipment?
• Is there a defibrillator with pediatric paddles? Ask!
• Who will monitor the child after the sedation and completion of the procedure?

No one expects a parent to be well versed in equipment that's necessary for handling an emergency but there is certainly nothing to stop him from inquiring of the expert - the dentist or professional who will be sedating the child. A well-informed parent will be more confident and this will have a calming effect upon the child and, hopefully, decrease his anxiety.

To download our guide to sedation dentistry visit the Fort Lauderdale dentist. Dr Leff, Weiss and Waldee's services range from sedation dentistry to Invisalign in Fort Lauderdale.

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