Sedating a child for a dental procedure is normally very safe, but it’s important for parents to prepare their child for sedation.
Safety is always a parent’s top concern when it comes to protecting their child. This is especially true with regard to dental sedation. For children who are autistic or who are extremely young or nervous, a dentist may recommend sedation for dental procedures. Sedating a child is normally very safe, and there are things that parents can do to reduce the risks and stress levels for their child before and after treatment.
Dr Thoms and his team are phenomenal. No question, the absolute best possible option for my child when he needed work done while sleeping (age based). While this option is not inexpensive, this set up of have anesthesiology in-house allowed us to get his mouth healthy when a traditional pediatric dentist could/would not. I am a parent that asks a lot of questions on behalf of my toddler’s care and at no point did I feel judged for this, nor was I rushed during my evaluation process during the consultation. Although the procedure is not one I would like to repeat for my child, my husband and I were both so pleased with how well Dr. Thoms communicated and how he clearly cared for our son’s wellbeing (both physical and emotional during a less than comfortable visit). Cannot recommend the back of house team more highly.
My one detraction is the FOH staff (not everyone) were not nearly as pleasant. I would like to communicate that while their day-to-day is very routine for them, being in that office as a parent is very scary for some people in their office and a little bit of kindness goes along way. I do recall, having a very pleasant conversation with Rebecca, but otherwise everyone else was on the apathetic side, in my personal opinion. That said you’ll notice that I still am leaving a five star review because the dental staff really just knocked out of the park, but as a parent I want to encourage you to look past any rudeness you may experience over email or on the phone because Dr. Thom’s is really that excellent.
Very nice very convenient for me great people working
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad you had a positive experience with our team. We truly appreciate your 5-star review!
The staff is always compassionate and explain all the steps of the procedure. This office has been a God send for me because otherwise I would have let my teeth fall into further disrepair. I highly recommend this office!!!!!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and recommendation! We’re so glad our team could help make your experience feel comfortable and supportive. We truly appreciate your 5-star review!
Searching for a new dental clinic is challenging for someone who has
dental anxiety, fear, and traumatic experiences in a dental chair. The staff and doctors at the Dental Anesthesia Center were immediately very welcoming. Dr. Thoms put together a very detailed plan to repair and replace the previous work that I had in the past that was now causing problems. Putting my faith in him was the best thing that I could have done for my situation. I am more than completely satisfied with all of the extensive dental work that I’ve had with Dr.Thoms. I had my fourth sleep dentistry experience yesterday and I’m very happy with my results. I highly recommend this practice and truly want to give them more than five stars! Thank you for giving me back my health and confidence.
I adding to this post because of my visit today with the best dental hygienist Delaina and my exam with Dr. Biehl. I have truly never been to such a caring and supportive dental group. Everyone is always conscientious of my needs and knows that I have issues with anxiety. I am always calm when I am sitting in the chair because of their kindness. I am so pleased with the Dental anesthesia center. There needs to be more than five stars. Thank you, everyone.
Response from the owner:We know it isn’t always easy to find a dental office where you feel at ease, so your words mean the world to us. We’re so glad you feel comfortable with our team and truly appreciate your trust and recommendation!
I am unusually tense about my appointments. However, from the moment I checked in I relaxed. The staff was welcoming and assuring, and helped me to relax completely. Dr. Hofmann is superb. He is by far the best dentist and dental surgeon I have ever ever experienced.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad our team helped create a welcoming and comforting experience. We appreciate you sharing your feedback!
Prior to Sedation
It is important for parents to understand what is happening so that they are prepared and can also help prepare their children. Before sedation, parents need to understand and follow the restrictions set by the dentist. For instance, they need to comply with food and drink restrictions prior to sedation. This is because sedation can pose the risk of the contents of the stomach being vomited and inhaled into the lungs. Therefore, the restriction is a safety precaution that is put in place.
It is also necessary for parents to provide a full medical history of their child and tell the dentist about any medications or supplements the child takes.
Types of Sedation
Minimal Sedation – an individual is conscious. This method is the lightest level of sedation. It involves a mild sedative, such as a Valium-like medication or Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas.) Using this kind of sedation requires no additional training for the dentist.
Moderate Sedation (Sedation Dentistry) – the patient is conscious and is referred to as “Sedation Dentistry.” Moderate Sedation allows the patient to simply respond to questions. You are not asleep for sedation dentistry. A dentist is required to receive two days of additional training when administering pills orally. Intravenous (IV) Sedation requires at least 60 hours of training or a dentist can be trained as part of a residency program.
Deep Sedation ( General Anesthesia Dentistry or Sleep Dentistry) – Using this method, there is no memory of the procedure. Dentists who provide this method require a two-year Dental Anesthesiology Residency or an Oral Surgery Residency. This is the recommended level of sedation for individuals unable to tolerate dental treatment for mental or physical reasons.
The sedation method for an individual is determined by the patient’s medical history and current physical and mental health. When you come in for your appointment, Dr. Hoffmann or Dr. Behl will decide which level is best for you.
During Sedation
During the procedure, ensuring the patient’s safety is of the utmost importance. While a patient is sedated, their blood oxygen level, blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature are closely monitored.
After Sedation
Typically parents are asked to be present when their child is waking up after sedation. A child can sometimes be confused or upset and will often feel nauseous. Due to longer-lasting effects such as dizziness, sleepiness, and loss of physical coordination, a child shouldn’t go back to school or daycare after their procedure.
The child should be monitored for the first few hours after sedation. If they experience severe pain, vomiting, fever, or severe bleeding, parents need to immediately contact the dentist.
Sedation Dentistry for Children
When you and your child come in for your appointment, Dr. Hoffmann, Dr. Thoms, or Dr. Behl will decide which option is the best for your child, depending on their anxiety level and cooperation. Call us today to schedule your appointment at (314) 862-7844. We look forward to meeting you!
