Dental Anesthesia for Children: What Parents Should Know

Dental anesthesia for kids can be a scary thing for parents. However, it is a treatment that will only be recommended if your dentist believes it is safe to do so. There are many different types of anesthesia available, and it can be difficult to decide which one is right for your child. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of dental anesthesia available so you and Dr. Botero can decide what the best option is for your child. 

What is Dental Anesthesia?

Dental anesthesia is a medication that numbs the area around your teeth so you don’t feel any pain during your dental procedure. Dentists use different types of anesthesia depending on the age of the patient and the type of dental procedure.

What are the Different Types of Dental Anesthesia?

When it comes to anesthesia, there are a few different options. The American Academy of Pediatrics explains the types of dental anesthesia available to children:

Nitrous oxide:

This is a mild sedative and the least invasive. It’s commonly known as ‘giggle gas’ or ‘laughing gas.’ Children breathe this with a little oxygen. They don’t usually go to sleep, but most will get more relaxed. Most will get a little silly and lightheaded, but a few don’t like the feeling. 

Mild sedation:

This medication (or a combination of medications) are commonly used on older children and adults. Your child would be calm and awake—and sometimes able to do what the dentist or surgeon asks him or her to do. After the procedure, your child may not even remember things about the dental visit. Dentists and oral surgeons can safely give these medications while they do the dental work, because your child remains awake.

Moderate sedation:

Under moderate sedation children are sleepier, but they are usually able to do what the dentist or oral surgeon asks them to do. Older children and young adults do better with moderate sedation than younger or more fearful children. They breathe on their own and will usually wake up easily. Most children will not remember anything about the procedure. Dentists and oral surgeons can safely give these medications while they do the dental work.

Deep sedation:

This involves intravenous (IV) medications to help your child sleep through the procedure. While your child may still move a little and sometimes make noises, he or she may not be able to breathe well on his or her own. There must always be at least one additional qualified professional (independent observer), such as an anesthesiologist (see Who’s Who list below) who can monitor your child’s heart rate, heart rhythm, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation (breathing) during the procedure and until he or she wakes up. This professional can also determine when your child is ready to go home.

General anesthesia:

Under general anesthesia, your child will be completely asleep and pain free. Specially-trained anesthesia professionals (physicians, dentists, or certified nurse anesthetists) will administer medications and monitor your child while a separate dentist or oral surgeon performs the dental procedure or surgery. Anesthesia can be given in a dental office that is specially equipped, an ambulatory surgical center (ASC), or a hospital. 

What is the Best Type of Anesthesia for My Child?

The best type of anesthesia for your child will depend on their age, the type of dental procedure they need, and their level of anxiety. Dr. Botero will work with you to decide which type of anesthesia is best for your child.

Dental anesthesia can be a scary thing for parents, but it is important to remember that Dr. Botero will work with you to decide which type of anesthesia is best for your child.

Common Children’s Procedures May Require Anesthesia

The types of dental procedures that commonly require anesthesia for children are:

• A tooth pulled
• Fillings
• Crowns or caps
• Root canals
• Orthodontics or braces
• Dental implant surgery

Dental Anxiety in Children

It is not uncommon for children to experience dental anxiety. This can be caused by a number of factors, such as a fear of needles, pain, or the unknown. Dr. Botero will work with you to help your child feel comfortable and relaxed during their visit. If your child is too anxious, then using sedation dentistry could be beneficial to ensure the treatment can be completed in full.

Anesthesia Risks

There are always risks associated with anesthesia, but they are rare. The most common side effects of anesthesia are nausea and vomiting. There is also a small risk of your child experiencing an allergic reaction to the medication. Dr. Botero will work with you to determine if your child has any allergies that could put them at risk.

Make an Appointment with Li’l Sunshine Smiles Today!

If you have any questions about anesthesia, or if you would like to make an appointment with Li’l Sunshine Smiles, please give us a call today. We would be happy to answer any of your questions and help you schedule a visit for your child.