What To Know About Pediatric Sedation Dentistry

If your child is scared to go to the dentist or has a lot of anxiety regarding dental appointments, keeping up with routine dental care can be challenging. The good news is that there are a few ways to help, including seeing a pediatric sedation dentist. Pediatric sedation dentistry can be a safe and effective option for making your child feel comfortable during dental visits and procedures. Here's what to know about this kind of dentistry. 

It's Safe For Children

Sedation will help your child feel more relaxed and comfortable during dental procedures. Sedation also makes it easier for your dentist to complete the dental work without causing undue stress or discomfort. Sedation dentistry is safe for children when it is administered by a trained and experienced pediatric dentist. In addition, your dentist will monitor your child's vitals throughout the dental procedure to ensure their safety. Your child will also be monitored after the procedure. Sedation may be the best option for your child, especially during complex dental procedures. 

There Are Different Sedation Options

Another thing to know about pediatric sedation dentistry is that there are different sedation options that may work for your child's needs. You'll want to discuss your options and decide which works best for the procedure and your child's needs. Some sedation options that may work include laughing gas (also known as nitrous oxide), oral sedatives, and intravenous sedation. Once you determine which option is the most suitable, make sure your dentist walks you through the procedure so you understand what will be happening while your child is sedated.

Costs Can Vary

Another thing to know about pediatric sedation dentistry is that costs will vary depending on the level of sedation your child needs. Generally, options like laughing gas and oral sedation are the most affordable options. Intravenous, or IV, sedation will be the priciest option since it offers the deepest sedative effect. It's also important to note that your dental insurance may only cover sedation if it's medically necessary. So before committing to pediatric sedation, get an estimate of your out-of-pocket costs. 

There are a few things to know about pediatric sedation dentistry. First, sedation is safe when performed by a pediatric sedation dentist. Second, there are different levels of sedation available, and your dentist will help you determine which one is best for your child's needs. Finally, the cost of sedation dentistry varies, and you may have to pay out of pocket for the sedation. 

Contact a pediatric sedation dentist to learn more.