When considering whether to take a disabled child to a dental appointment, many parents may wonder, “Is it even safe to sedate my son or daughter when they visit their dentist?” If you can remember, your first few times visiting the dentist was most likely a little nerve wracking. For some, that slight discomfort can cause them to spiral into a full anxiety attack—especially young patients or patients with special needs. Luckily, Castle Rock Smiles has sedation dentistry for special needs kids in Castle Pines. We can morph an otherwise anxious, uncomfortable appointment into a positive dental experience—especially if your son or daughter needs a little more special attention to get the oral health care they need. If you’re looking forward to getting your child the dental care they need but not looking forward to the hassle of the appointment, explore these sedation options.
What exactly is sedation dentistry? Is it safe for my child?
Sedatives have proven to be effective in dentistry for a long time. Sedatives create a state of relaxation for especially apprehensive children or those that may have special needs. Can you picture how a child with autism would react entering an unfamiliar dental office? It would benefit both the child and the dentist to help create a more relaxed, fun environment so our young patients can feel right at home. We can do this by safely administering medication from Dr. Benzley. Being backed by a dentist with focused continued education on pediatrics and certified Diplomate by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, you can be confident that your child will receive the personalized attention they need and deserve.
Types of Sedation Dentistry Offered
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Does your child get a bit jittery when you mention having their teeth cleaned? You can consider trying “laughing gas” to help relax your little one. This can help our young patients with mild to moderate anxiety or special needs receive the dental work they need for their smiles. This form of sedation is so light that they will simply lie back and relax and remain awake during their appointment.
Oral Conscious Sedation
When you need a sedative that is light enough to allow your child to stay awake during their dental treatment but relieves pain and anxious feelings before and during their sit in the dental chair, consider oral conscious sedation. We use nitrous oxide and align a small mask over your orifices to help relax patients. It wears off quickly and most patients just feel drowsy directly after their dental appointment. They will be back to their normal behavior in no time!
General Anesthesia
If your child is extremely resistant to the idea of visiting their local pediatric dentist, speak to our office about general anesthesia. We use both IV sedatives and inhalation agents to ensure that our patient is completely asleep during their dental treatment. This technique is recommended for patients with severe dental phobia and helpful for children who can’t sit still in the dental chair. This is a good option for special needs patients that may have uncontrolled movements because of their disorder. Patients that undergo general anesthesia during their dental appointment will need an escort to and from our office.
We Welcome All Children to Have Their Teeth Cleaned
Although deciding if sedation is right for you and your family is up to you as the parent, we will make the best recommendation for you during a scheduled appointment. If you’re not comfortable with the suggestion of your dentist, please let us know! We’re more than happy to openly discuss different treatment options for your family’s smiles.
Contact Castle Rock Smiles
Although deciding if sedation is right for you and your family is up to you as the parent, we will make the best recommendation for you during a scheduled appointment. If you’re not comfortable with the suggestion of your dentist please let us know! We’re more than happy to openly discuss different treatment options for your family’s smiles.
