Not all children are afraid of the dentist; however, some express mild or severe anxiety anytime the topic comes up. Fortunately, dental sedation is an option many experts use to help calm nerves and create a more positive, relaxing environment. If your child is preparing to receive any form of sedation during their upcoming visit, you may want to take note of these four tips to help you care for them after their appointment.
Tip #1: Keep Them Hydrated
Regardless of the type of sedation they receive, keeping your child hydrated is essential. Not only do clear liquids and water help with recovery, but they also flush out any harmful bacteria inside their mouth.
You’ll also want to help them eat lighter snacks initially, as denser foods can be too hard on their stomach. This is especially true with IV sedation because of how much stronger it is than nitrous oxide.
Tip #2: Ensure They Get Plenty of Rest
With IV sedation, you can expect that your child will be groggy after treatment, so they will need plenty of rest once they return home. This means they should not engage in any physical activity for the rest of the day.
Depending on the type of oral procedure they received, they may need to avoid overexerting themselves for a few days to allow for proper healing. The effects of the sedation must wear off gradually, which can happen when they get plenty of rest.
Tip #3: Closely Watch for Any Side Effects/Complications
Your child’s pediatric dentist will ensure they are cleared to receive dental sedation before their procedure. However, side effects can occur. This is why you should closely monitor them once they are home.
This means watching for signs of nausea, vomiting, allergic reactions, etc. If severe or persistent, do not wait to call your child’s dentist’s office. They can provide additional tips and recommendations to ensure your child receives the help they need to recover successfully.
Tip #4: Help Them Maintain Their Oral Health
After the sedation wears off, your child will need to follow their normal oral hygiene routine. One caveat is that they should not use mouthwash after receiving nitrous oxide or IV sedation; instead, they should rinse their mouth with water when cleaning and flossing their teeth.
If their dentist offers specific oral hygiene instructions to follow, make sure to adhere to them while your child is recovering.
Dental sedation is a beneficial solution your child can take advantage of when visiting the dentist. By keeping these tips in mind, you can be sure they remain comfortable during and after their procedure.
About the Author
Dr. Trent Miner is a pediatric dentist who completed his dental degree at the University of Nevada Las Vegas School of Dental Medicine in 2015. With specialty training in pediatrics, he now runs Riverside Smiles Pediatric Dentistry and cares for young patients of all ages. With certifications in laser dentistry and nitrous oxide, he is equipped to provide safe and effective sedation to those who are nervous about visiting the treatment chair. If your child needs additional help to reduce their anxiety, visit our website or call (321) 378–4344 to schedule an appointment.