The mind of a child is truly fascinating. Their imagination is vibrant, and their interpretation of life and perception can be insightful. However, some things, even innocent or safe things, can seem scary or dangerous to them. As a parent, you try to understand their perspective and help guide them through life’s experiences.
When your child needs dental sedation to receive care, you may wish to let them know what the experience will be like or to know for your own peace of mind. Below you’ll find explanations of what dental sedation will be like for your child and how it works.
Having Nitrous Oxide
Out of all the dental sedation options available, nitrous oxide is the least invasive. This odorless gas is inhaled through a nasal mask, and the concentration is carefully controlled for maximum comfort.
If your child receives nitrous oxide, they will need to keep the nasal mask on and simply breathe in like they normally would. Within minutes, they will start to feel light, warm, and content. In fact, some patients report feeling like they are floating. Your child will remain aware of what’s going on around them, but it will not bother them or cause them stress.
Although nitrous oxide is commonly referred to as laughing gas, most patients do not laugh. That being said, with higher concentrations of the gas, some kids may say silly things or giggle a little because they feel completely at ease. Once the mask is removed, they should return to normal within a few minutes.
Being Under General Anesthesia
Unlike nitrous oxide, which won’t put your child to sleep, general anesthesia will. Your child’s well-being and vitals are closely monitored throughout the entire procedure to make sure they remain safe. A board-certified anesthesiologist will apply a mask that covers your child’s mouth and nose and ask them to breathe in. In just a few seconds, the patient will close their eyes and be unconscious.
At that point, an IV will be inserted, and the medications that keep them asleep are delivered directly to their bloodstream. Once the dental work is completed, the IV is removed, and your child will slowly regain consciousness. It may take up to an hour for them to be fully awake.
From your child’s perspective, they will likely recall very little. In fact, they may barely remember having the mask placed on their face. Before they know it, they will be waking up with their procedure finished. As a result, this powerful sedation is ideal for those who have special needs, are having complex or multiple treatments, and have severe dental phobia.
Understanding what your child will experience while under dental sedation can help you prepare them for what’s coming as well as help you feel more comfortable. Of course, if you have questions about sedation your pediatric dentist offers, contact them so that you are confident going in for your child’s care.
About the Author
Dr. J. Patrick Bowman, who goes by Dr. Patrick, is proud to offer both nitrous oxide sedation and general anesthesia for patients in need. He works with a board-certified children’s anesthesiologist and often performs procedures in a hospital setting for patients receiving this type of sedation. At Wash Park Pediatric Dentistry, he and the rest of the team make every effort to make children and their parents comfortable and happy with their care. If you would like to learn more about dental sedation, contact the Denver office online or call 720-647-6310.