How to Prepare Your Child for Dental Sedation

If your child experiences dental anxiety, nitrous oxide dental sedation may be a great option for a stress-free visit. Before your child undergoes this sedation, however, it’s essential to know what to expect so that you can properly prepare.

Preparing for Your Child’s Nitrous Oxide Dental Sedation Visit

While nitrous oxide is a safe and effective way to help your child feel better about going to the dentist, feeling concerned about your child’s upcoming dental appointment is entirely normal. Use the following tips to help you and your kid feel more comfortable about their upcoming appointment:

• Be present: By being with your child as they experience this sedation, you’ll help them be more relaxed, assisting the recovery process.
• Prioritize comfort: You can ensure your child feels more comfortable during their procedure by letting them wear pajamas or other relaxed clothing, and bring a comfort item like a blanket or stuffed animal to the office.
• Be honest: While it may be tempting to hide your child from the reality of their procedure, it is more beneficial if you talk openly about the appointment and what our team will be doing.

Can My Child Eat Before Having Nitrous Oxide?

It’s acceptable that your child eats or drinks prior to undergoing nitrous oxide sedation. However, nitrous oxide can cause your child to become nauseous during the procedure or vomit afterward so a light meal is encouraged.

Can I Give My Child Medication Before Having Nitrous Oxide?

Consult your doctor and dentist if your child needs to take medication before their appointment, as their medication may react with the nitrous oxide. Generally, your dentist will advise against your child taking any medication before receiving the sedation.

General Dental Surgery Preparation

Knowing what to expect before your child’s surgery can help make the process less stressful. Some ways to prepare include:

• Arrive early: Arriving early to your child’s appointment will allow you to have enough time to fill out any remaining paperwork and talk to the dentists about any last-minute concerns.
• Wear short sleeves: Short sleeves make it easier for the nurses to take your child’s vital signs and put a blood pressure cuff on during the procedure, if necessary.
• Ask questions: Asking questions before the procedure will ensure you are as informed as possible to help raise your confidence levels.

Let Our Team Help You Prepare Your Child for Dental Sedation

If your child is a candidate for nitrous oxide sedation, the team at Sprout Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics is here to help their procedure be successful. We have years of experience offering nitrous oxide and can answer any questions you may have to ensure you and your child feel confident before their appointment. We invite you to schedule an appointment at our office to learn more.