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Home › Oral Conscious Sedation - Helping Your Child Relax During Dental Treatment

Oral Conscious Sedation - Helping Your Child Relax During Dental Treatment
Posted on 10/2/2024 by NC Pediatric Dentisty
Sedated young person in a dental chair.As a pediatric dentist, I see children of all ages, from tiny tots to teenagers. Some children embrace dental care, while others may experience anxiety or fear. For these children, oral conscious sedation can be a safe and effective way to receive the dental care they need.

What is Oral Conscious Sedation?


Oral conscious sedation is a medication that helps children relax and feel drowsy during dental procedures. It differs from general anesthesia, which puts children completely to sleep. Instead, oral conscious sedation allows children to remain awake and responsive to their surroundings.

How is Oral Conscious Sedation Administered?


The medication is typically taken orally, about an hour before the dental appointment. The medication is typically a liquid or syrup that has a pleasant taste. The dosage is carefully calculated based on your child's age, weight, and medical history.

What are the Benefits of Oral Conscious Sedation?


Oral conscious sedation offers several benefits for children who experience dental anxiety:

•  Reduces anxiety and fear: The medication helps children feel calm and relaxed, making them more comfortable during the dental procedure.
•  Decreases pain sensitivity: While the medication does not completely eliminate pain, it can help reduce the child's perception of pain.
•  Improves cooperation: Children are more likely to cooperate with the dentist and dental staff when they are relaxed and comfortable.
•  Allows for more complex procedures: Oral conscious sedation can be helpful for longer or more complex procedures that require the child to be still for an extended period.

What are the Risks of Oral Conscious Sedation?


As with any medication, there are some potential risks associated with oral conscious sedation. These risks are rare, but it’s important to be aware of them. Possible side effects include:

•  Drowsiness: Children may feel sleepy after taking the medication.
•  Nausea or vomiting: Some children may experience nausea or vomiting after taking the medication.
•  Hiccups: Hiccups are a common side effect of oral conscious sedation.
•  Allergic reactions: In rare cases, children may have an allergic reaction to the medication.

I will carefully monitor your child throughout the procedure and take steps to minimize any potential risks.

Is Oral Conscious Sedation Right for My Child?


If your child experiences dental anxiety or has difficulty cooperating during dental appointments, oral conscious sedation may be a good option. I will discuss the risks and benefits of oral conscious sedation with you and help you decide if it is the right choice for your child.

What to Expect After Oral Conscious Sedation


After the dental procedure, your child will be monitored in the recovery area until the effects of the medication wear off. It's important to have someone drive your child home, as they won’t be able to do so themselves. Your child may be drowsy and need to rest for the remainder of the day.

Conclusion


Oral conscious sedation is a safe and effective way to help children relax and receive the dental care they need. If you're concerned about your child's dental anxiety, feel free to talk to me. I will be happy to discuss your options and help you choose the best course of treatment for your child.

Smiles from ear-to-ear with locations from here-to-here.


Our community of dentistry superheroes prioritizes smiles above all else—theirs AND yours. That’s why we make it easy to find the location that’s right for you. Learn what to expect for your first visit, virtually tour the space, meet the dentists, and discover location-specific specialties and resources below.


Advance Pediatric Dentistry


135 Medical Drive
Advance, NC
(743) 259-8887

Afton Pediatric Dentistry


5641 Poplar Tent Rd. Suite 201
Concord, NC
(980) 291-4013

Caldwell Pediatric Dentistry


210 Willow Street NW
Lenoir, NC
(828) 383-0322

Denver Pediatric Dentistry


275 NC-16 Business Suite 204B
Denver, NC
(980) 303-5083

Dunn Pediatric Dentistry


711 Tilghman Drive
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(910) 984-0026

Fuquay Pediatric Dentistry


401 Attain Street Suite 111
Fuquay-Varina, NC
(984) 313-4086

Hickory Grove Pediatric Dentistry


5708 North Sharon Amity Rd. Suite 5708a
Charlotte, NC
(980) 369-2014

Huntersville Pediatric Dentistry


9625 Northcross Center Ct. Suite 101
Huntersville, NC
(980) 306-6635

Locust Pediatric Dentistry


236 Market Street Suite 200
Locust, NC
(980) 354-0784

Mebane Pediatric Dentistry


1107 S. Fifth St. # 100
Mebane, NC
(984) 290-5016

Mint Hill Pediatric Dentistry


9055 Cresswind Blvd. Suite 104
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(980) 369-2032

Mooresville Pediatric Dentistry


202 Williamson Rd. Suite 200
Mooresville, NC
(980) 455-4053

Salisbury Pediatric Dentistry


140 Mahaley Avenue Suite B
Salisbury, NC
(980) 305-5002

Shelby Pediatric Dentistry


221 Simpson Park Rd.
Shelby, NC
(980) 436-2483

Sherrills Ford Pediatric Dentistry


7856 Village Center N Suite 200
Sherrills Ford, NC
(980) 291-9087

Statesville Pediatric Dentistry


1454 Fern Creek Drive
Statesville, NC
(980) 391-2407





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