When Is Sedation Dentistry Recommended for Children?
When Is Sedation Dentistry Recommended for Children?
At Discover Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, our pediatric dentists in Okemos, MI, understand that some children need extra help to feel safe and comfortable during dental treatment. That’s why we offer both laughing gas sedation in our office and general anesthesia at Sparrow Hospital. But how do you know when sedation dentistry is the right choice for your child?
Managing Dental Anxiety or Fear
Sedation dentistry is often recommended for children who experience moderate to severe anxiety about dental visits. Fear can prevent them from sitting still or cooperating during procedures, making it difficult for our team to provide necessary care.
Laughing gas can help calm nerves and create a more positive experience. For more complex cases or deeper anxiety, general anesthesia may be necessary to ensure your child gets the treatment they need in a safe and controlled environment.
Young Age or Inability to Sit Still
Younger children, especially toddlers and preschoolers, may not be developmentally ready to tolerate dental treatment. If your child is unable to sit still for long periods or follow basic instructions during a visit, sedation can make dental care more effective and less stressful for everyone involved. Laughing gas is a gentle and commonly used option in these cases.
Extensive Dental Work Needed
When a child requires multiple procedures or has a significant amount of dental work that must be completed, helps ensure all treatment can be done efficiently. It can be difficult for a child to endure several appointments without becoming overwhelmed or fatigued. Sedation—especially general anesthesia—can allow our team to complete all necessary work in a single session.
Special Healthcare Needs
Children with sensory issues, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, or other medical conditions may benefit from sedation to help them feel more at ease during dental visits. Our pediatric dentists work closely with parents to create customized care plans, and sedation may be a recommended option to ensure your child receives gentle and appropriate treatment.
Pain Management for Invasive Procedures
For more invasive procedures, such as tooth extractions or restorations, can reduce discomfort and ensure that the procedure is as painless as possible. While local anesthesia is typically used to numb the area, laughing gas or general anesthesia may be added to help your child remain relaxed throughout the treatment.
Safety and Professional Oversight
At Discover Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, your child’s safety is our top priority. We follow the highest standards of care and carefully assess each child’s medical history before recommending sedation. Laughing gas is administered right in our Okemos office under close monitoring, while general anesthesia is safely provided at Sparrow Hospital with a specialized medical team.
Schedule an Appointment with Us
If you think your child may benefit from sedation, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our pediatric dentists in Okemos, MI. We’ll help you determine the best and safest approach so your child can maintain a healthy, happy smile without fear or stress. Call Discover Smiles Pediatric Dentistry at (517) 574-4688 or request an appointment online to get started.