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Home › Sedation Dentistry for Children - Is It Safe?

Sedation Dentistry for Children - Is It Safe?
Posted on 7/1/2025 by NC Pediatric Dentisty
Smiling child wearing a nitrous oxide mask to receive sedation before a dental procedure.As a concerned parent, you want the best for your child, especially when it comes to their health and well-being. Dental care is no exception. But what if your child experiences dental anxiety or has special needs that make traditional dental visits challenging? Sedation dentistry may be the answer.

What is Sedation Dentistry?


Sedation dentistry uses medication to help children relax and feel comfortable during dental procedures. Different types of sedation are available, ranging from mild to deep, depending on your child's needs and the complexity of the treatment.

•  Inhalation sedation (laughing gas): This mild form of sedation involves breathing a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen, which helps your child relax and feel less anxious.
•  Oral sedation: Your child takes a medication by mouth, usually a liquid, about an hour before the procedure. This type of sedation produces a drowsy state, helping your child feel calm and sleepy.
•  Intravenous (IV) sedation: This deeper form of sedation is administered through a vein, allowing for a more profound state of relaxation and even unconsciousness.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe for Children?


Sedation dentistry is a safe and effective way to help children receive the dental care they need. Pediatric dentists, who are specially trained to treat children's dental needs, administer these medications. They carefully monitor your child throughout the procedure, ensuring their safety and comfort.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recognize sedation dentistry as a safe and valuable tool in pediatric dentistry. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks, some of which may include:

•  Nausea and vomiting
•  Drowsiness and fatigue
•  Allergic reactions (rare)
•  Respiratory complications (rare)

It's important to discuss your child's individual medical history and any concerns you may have with your pediatric dentist. They will assess your child's needs and determine the safest and most appropriate type of sedation.

Benefits of Sedation Dentistry for Children


Sedation dentistry offers several benefits for children, including:

•  Reduced anxiety and fear: Sedation helps your child relax and feel comfortable during the procedure, making the experience less stressful.
•  Improved cooperation: Relaxed children are more cooperative, allowing the dentist to complete the necessary treatment efficiently.
•  Pain-free experience: Depending on the type of sedation used, your child may not feel any pain during the procedure.
•  Positive dental experiences: Having positive dental experiences early in life can set the stage for a lifetime of good oral health.

Conclusion


Sedation dentistry is a safe and effective option for children who experience dental anxiety or have special needs that make traditional dental visits challenging. Choosing a qualified pediatric dentist and discussing your child's individual needs can help ensure a safe and positive dental experience.

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
Dunn, NC
(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
Charlotte, NC
(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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