How Should I Care for My Child After Dental Sedation?

Sedation is an effective way to calm the nervous system when someone experiences dental anxiety and fear. And did you know that kids can benefit from sedation dentistry too? 

A lot of the time, children have a hard time while in the dentist's chair. The new environment, strange noises, and new faces can make them anxious and likely to refuse treatment. 

With sedation, you can help your child remain calm and relaxed during the appointment, allowing the dentist to go through the treatment successfully. 

But, is it safe to use sedation for your child? 

Here's what you need to know. 

Is Sedation Safe for Children?

A lot of parents ask us if sedation is safe. And, understandably so. They want to make sure that nothing will happen to their child and that they are making the best choices for their health. 

Rest assured that we will discuss your child’s general health and medical history before proceeding with the treatment. Moreover, the sedative will be administered by a trained and certified professional and your child will be closely monitored the entire time while they are under sedation. 

All these measures will ensure that sedation is safely used and that your child will be safe. 

How to Care for Your Child After Sedation?

Depending on the type of sedation, your child might not experience any side effects at all or feel the effects of the medication for up to 7 hours after the procedure. During this time, you will need to closely monitor your child to make sure everything is in order.  

The pediatric dentist will inform you on what to do until the sedation wears off, and how to take care of your child and their oral health after the intervention. 

Here are our recommendations for taking care of your child after sedation:

  • Keep your child under constant supervision 
  • Your child can eat but make sure they have soft/liquid foods, as their mouth is still numb, and they can hurt themselves 
  • Make sure your child stays hydrated, but do not use a straw as it can impact the dental treatment 
  • Make sure your child does not spit as it can also damage the area where the treatment was applied 
  • It is possible for your child to feel discomfort, pain, and even swelling. Use an ice pack to ease these symptoms. You can also use pain medication if the doctor prescribed any 
  • You can expect some bleeding if an extraction was performed. Use a gauze and press on it for around 10 to 15 minutes to control the bleeding. 

Do You Have More Questions About Sedation? Call Us Now! 

Would you like to learn more about sedation and if it's right for your child? The team at Marshfield Pediatric Dentistry is here to help you.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our doctors. 

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