Sedation Dentistry: Yes, Your Nervous Child Really Can Relax in the Dentist’s Chair

For many children, visiting the dentist can be an overwhelming experience. Our team at Austin Advanced Dentistry, led by Aditi Saxena, DDS, understands that unfamiliar sounds, bright lights, and new faces can cause fear and anxiety in your child, even for a simple routine checkup. 

If your child struggles with dental visits, you’re not alone. Dental anxiety is very common in kids. That’s one reason we offer sedation dentistry. It provides a safe, effective way to help children relax so they can get the care they need without fear.

Sedation dentistry, explained

At Austin Advanced Dentistry, we use sedation dentistry to help our patients feel calm and comfortable during dental procedures. Depending on your child’s needs, sedation can range from mild relaxation to deeper sleep-like states. For children, we may recommend mild or moderate options, such as:

Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)

Nitrous oxide is a gentle, quick-acting gas that your child breathes in through a mask to help them feel calm. It may even produce a light, happy sensation. Once we remove the mask, the effects wear off within minutes.

Oral sedation

We can prescribe a liquid or pill that your child takes before their appointment that helps reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

IV sedation or general anesthesia

Reserved for more complex cases, IV sedation ensures your child sleeps through the procedure. It’s typically used for children who need extensive dental work or who can’t tolerate treatment while awake.

When to consider sedation for kids

When children are relaxed, Dr. Saxena can complete treatments more quickly and effectively. That means fewer appointments and a smoother experience overall. 

If your child is very nervous or has special healthcare needs, sedation dentistry can make all the difference between avoiding care and getting a healthy smile.

The benefits of sedation dentistry for children

Benefits of sedation dentistry for children include:

• Reduced fear and anxiety during visits
• A more positive experience that builds trust with the dentist
• Less movement during procedures, making treatment safer and faster
• Prevention of long-term dental phobias that can carry into adulthood

These benefits make dental visits easier in the moment and set the stage for a lifetime of healthier, more confident smiles.

Safety first

As a parent, you may wonder if sedation is safe for your child. At Austin Advanced Dentistry, we’re trained dental professionals with expertise in sedation dentistry. 

We carefully review your child’s health history, explain what to expect, and closely monitor your child throughout their visit. We also tailor the level of sedation to your child’s age, health, and specific needs, ensuring their safety.

Helping your child smile with confidence

Instead of associating the dentist with stress, we’re here to help your child have positive experiences that support a lifetime of healthy teeth.

If dental anxiety is holding your child back from the care they need, ask us about our sedation options. Contact our friendly office staff in Austin, Texas, today to schedule a consultation to learn more. With the right approach, your child can relax in the dentist’s chair and even leave with a smile.