IV sedation is a popular and effective way to help patients relax while receiving dental treatment. Although many individuals assume it is only recommended for adults, it is actually a helpful solution for children who require invasive procedures or who need help to overcome extreme dental anxiety. If you are questioning whether your child might be a good candidate for IV sedation, read on to find out more about this technique and how it can change the way they view the dentist’s office.
What is IV Sedation?
IV sedation is a technique used by dental professionals to help patients relax before receiving oral treatment. As a form of conscious sedation, it is not designed to fully sedate the individual but instead, create a more comfortable experience – one that is free of pain, anxiety, and fear.
With IV sedation, the medication is delivered intravenously (through the vein), and its effects come on quickly, allowing patients to become more at ease in less time.
Is It Safe for Children?
When it comes to administering IV sedation to children, many dentists will first meet with the child and their parents to discuss eligibility. This requires a thorough discussion of their oral and overall health, including which medications they are taking, if any.
It’s important that the dentist identify any potential concerns or problems that could occur as a result of a child’s health history, as certain conditions or medications can cause sedation to be ineffective (i.e., the child is allergic to the medication that is used, they have a heart problem, etc.).
When administered by a qualified IV sedation dentist, children can remain safe and secure throughout their appointment, never feeling any discomfort or anxiety.
Is Your Child a Good Candidate?
The only way to know if a child is a good candidate for IV sedation is for the parent to schedule an appointment with the pediatric dentist. This visit will determine if any existing conditions might prevent the administration of sedation as well as what problems a child might be experiencing that warrant the need for this type of treatment.
Typically, if a child exhibits any of the following, IV sedation can be considered a viable option:
- They have extreme dental anxiety caused by past trauma
- They have a sensitive or strong gag reflex
- They suffer from physical disability and are unable to sit still in the treatment chair
- They require multiple or invasive dental treatments
- They have difficulty with other forms of sedation or anesthesia
Keeping your child comfortable during their dental appointments is important, especially if a positive view of the dentist’s office is to be achieved. Don’t discount the potential for them to receive IV sedation, as its results can change the way they think about receiving oral healthcare in the future.
About the Author
Dr. Meghan Thorburn is a pediatric dentist who completed dental school at UT Houston. With nearly a decade of experience, she enjoys helping young patients feel good about visiting the dentist’s office. Recognizing the struggle many young children face when it comes to receiving even a regular checkup and cleaning, she and the team at Trinity Pediatric Dentistry are pleased to provide various methods of sedation dentistry, one of which is IV sedation. If you would like to learn whether your child is a candidate, visit our website or call (682) 207-6390 to learn how we can help.