Sedation Dentistry for Children: What Parents Should Know
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At Lancaster Pediatric Dental Associates, we know that a trip to the dentist can feel overwhelming for many children. Whether it's fear of the unknown, past experiences, or sensory sensitivities, dental anxiety in children is common — and our compassionate team of experienced pediatric dentists is here to help. With pediatric sedation dentistry options tailored specifically for children, we can make dental care more comfortable, less intimidating, and more positive from start to finish. If you're wondering whether your child might benefit from sedation during their next dental treatment, here are answers to some of the most common questions parents have about kids' dental sedation.
When is sedation dentistry recommended for children?
While each child and appointment is unique, there are certain scenarios when performing a treatment, procedure, or even exam with the addition of some type of pediatric dental sedation may be appropriate and advantageous for all parties – parents, patients, and providers included. Generally speaking, sedation dentistry is often used to help children who:
- Feel nervous or anxious about dental visits
- Have had traumatic dental experiences in the past
- Require extensive or complex dental work, like a dental extraction
- Have difficulty sitting still for long periods
- Have special healthcare needs
- Experience a strong gag reflex
Our team will evaluate your child's health history, temperament, and treatment needs to determine whether sedation is appropriate and which type of dental sedation for kids is suitable.
What sedation options are available?
At Lancaster Pediatric Dental Associates, we understand that each patient is unique and are proud to offer several sedation solutions to accommodate different levels of anxiety and procedural needs. Some of the most popular types of pediatric dental sedation available today include:
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)
- Hospital dentistry under general anesthesia
Is sedation dentistry safe for children?
When administered by experienced pediatric dental professionals, sedation dentistry is considered very safe and can even make the treatment or procedure safer than if performed without sedation. Our dentists and team are highly trained in pediatric sedation protocols and monitor each child closely throughout the procedure to ensure their safety and comfort.
Will my child be asleep for dental work with sedation?
That depends on the type of sedation used. With nitrous oxide, your child will remain awake but feel relaxed and calm. With general anesthesia (hospital dentistry), your child will be asleep and unaware of the procedure, which may be recommended for more extensive work or children with complex medical needs. Again, we will discuss the pros and cons of each option during your child's consultation and help you understand what to expect on the day of treatment.
Is sedation dentistry covered by insurance?
Coverage for pediatric sedation dentistry depends on your insurance plan, the type of dental sedation used, and the nature of your child's treatment. Our knowledgeable team will review your benefits ahead of time and let you know what's covered and whether any out-of-pocket expenses may apply. We also offer several payment options and may be able to assist with low-cost financing if needed.
Set your child up for a successful appointment with pediatric sedation dentistry in Lancaster, PA
Sedation dentistry can be a helpful tool for ensuring your child receives the dental care they need in a way that feels safe and manageable for them — and for you. At Lancaster Pediatric Dental Associates, our caring team is committed to making each visit a positive one, no matter your child's age, needs, or comfort level. If your child struggles with dental anxiety or is scheduled for a complex treatment, contact our Lancaster, PA pediatric dentistry office to learn more about sedation dentistry and whether it may be a good fit for your family.