Dental visits can be nerve-racking for children—and for parents too! When anxiety or special needs make routine care difficult, sedation dentistry can help your child relax and receive the treatment they need. But how do you know which dentist to trust with something so important? Here are some expert tips to help you find a sedation dentist for your child.
Look for Specialized Training
Not every pediatric dentist is trained to care for children under sedation. While most have the training necessary to provide basic comfort, sedation dentistry requires an additional specialized certification.
Be sure to ask your child’s dentist if they have completed continuing education in sedation dentistry—it’s not rude! This ensures that the person caring for your child has the expertise to keep them calm, comfortable, and safe throughout their visit.
Explore Sedation Dentistry Options
There are several types of sedation used for children that can be useful in different situations, such as:
- Nitrous Oxide: Also known as laughing gas, this gentle option keeps kids awake but relaxed.
- Oral Conscious Sedation: This method uses a medication taken by mouth before the appointment to reduce anxiety. Its effects are stronger than nitrous oxide and last longer.
- IV Sedation: Typically reserved for longer or more complex procedures, or children with medical disabilities, this sedation method is administered through an IV drip. It has the most potent and lasting effects, often causing a child to fall asleep.
A good pediatric sedation dentist will walk you through each option and take qualities like age, weight, and anxiety levels into consideration.
Discuss Safety Protocols
Your child’s comfort is important, but safety always comes first. Ask about the office’s monitoring equipment and emergency procedures. Every sedation dentist should use tools to track oxygen levels, heart rate, and blood pressure throughout the visit and have clear safety procedures in place.
Look at Reviews
Other parents are one of your best resources! So, don’t forget to read reviews, ask friends for recommendations. If you have any questions regarding anything you’ve found, don’t hesitate to call their office. A trustworthy dentist will take the time to answer thoroughly and reassure you before any procedure.
Finding the right pediatric sedation dentist can make dental visits for your child easier, safer, and even enjoyable! With the right provider, you can rest easy knowing your little one is in expert hands.
About the Author
Dr. Lily is a board-certified pediatric dentist who has a genuine passion for helping children feel safe and confident at the dentist. She earned her dental degree from Western University of Health Sciences and completed her pediatric certification at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Through rigorous study, she’s gained the skills to provide specialized care for every child’s needs—even gentle dental sedation. Call (469) 925-0861 to schedule an appointment for your child at Shiny Smiles Pediatric Dentistry or visit our website to learn more.