When your child needs extensive dental work, you may feel anxious about the procedure. It’s normal for both children and parents to feel uneasy about dental visits, especially when the treatment involves more than just a checkup. Sedation is one of the pediatric dental services we offer to help children get necessary care comfortably and without fear. For some children, dental sedation with IV anesthesia is a helpful and safe option to ensure a stress-free experience.
Dr. Mathew works with a medical anesthesia team for in-office procedures that require sedation. For kids who need dental care provided in a hospital setting, we’re credentialed with Children’s Mercy Hospital. These options ensure a safe, comfortable experience for your child and an optimal outcome.
Dental Sedation with IV Anesthesia
Dental sedation is a method of helping children relax during complex procedures to address a dental health concern. IV anesthesia, also known as intravenous sedation, involves giving the child medicine through a small needle inserted into their vein. The medication will help them relax, stay comfortable, and not remember the procedure.
An anesthesiologist is a specially trained professional who will administer the anesthesia and monitor your child’s vital signs throughout the process. We work with a local team that specializes in pediatric sedation.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Before the procedure begins, you’ll meet with Dr. Mathew and the anesthesiologist to discuss the sedation process. This is the time to ask any questions and make sure you understand everything about the procedure. The anesthesiologist will explain how they’ll give the sedation through the IV and how they’ll monitor your child throughout the procedure.
When it’s time for the sedation, we’ll make your child comfortable in the dental chair. The anesthesiologist will insert a small needle to administer the medication. Your child may feel a slight pinch when the needle is inserted. The sedation will take effect quickly, making your child feel calm and relaxed.
During the procedure, the anesthesiologist will stay by your child’s side to monitor their vital signs. They’ll constantly check heart rate, oxygen levels, and blood pressure. Dr. Mathew will perform the dental work while your child remains relaxed and comfortable. The sedation will ensure that your child doesn’t experience pain or discomfort during the treatment.
After the procedure is finished, your child will slowly begin to wake up from the sedation. It may take a little while for them to feel fully alert because they’ll be a bit groggy or confused at first. The anesthesiologist will continue to monitor your child until they’re fully awake and comfortable. You’ll be given specific aftercare instructions once you’re home, and a follow-up appointment may be scheduled if needed.
How We Keep Your Child Safe
The safety of your child is our top priority. Before the procedure, the nurse anesthetist will thoroughly review your child’s health history and any medications they’re currently taking. This is to ensure that the sedation is safe for them and will not cause any unexpected reactions.
During the procedure, the anesthesiologist will continuously monitor your child’s vital signs. They’re trained to handle any potential issues and will be ready to respond quickly if any concerns arise. We also have emergency equipment on hand, just in case, ensuring your child’s safety throughout the sedation.
Who is IV Anesthesia Best For?
IV anesthesia can be really helpful for some kids during dental treatment. It’s often recommended for:
- Long or complex procedures, like multiple fillings, extractions, or oral surgery.
- Kids with high anxiety or fear who may feel too nervous to relax during treatment.
- Children who have trouble sitting still, including children with special needs.
- Those with a low pain tolerance or who need a lot of work done in one visit.
With IV anesthesia, your child will be in a calm, sleep-like state while the dentist works. This keeps them safe, comfortable, and still so the dental team can do their best work. Your child will feel relaxed and remember little or nothing afterward.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I prepare my child for IV sedation the day before?
It’s important to follow specific eating and drinking instructions provided by our team. Typically, your child will need to avoid solid foods and milk for 8 hours before the procedure and clear liquids for 2 hours beforehand. This is to ensure their stomach is empty, which greatly reduces any risk during sedation. We’ll give you detailed, personalized instructions during your pre-sedation consultation.
What are the potential side effects after my child wakes up?
It’s very common for children to feel groggy, dizzy, or a bit confused as the sedation wears off. They might also have some nausea, vomiting, or be extra fussy for the rest of the day. These effects are temporary and should fade within 24 hours. Our team will give you clear instructions on how to manage them at home.
How long does it take for the effects of the IV sedation to completely wear off?
While the deepest effects wear off quickly after the procedure ends, it can take up to 24 hours for the medication to fully leave your child’s system. Your child should take it easy for the rest of the day. Avoid strenuous activities, bike riding, or anything that requires full coordination. They should be back to their normal self by the next day.
Is there any special aftercare needed for my child’s teeth following a sedated procedure?
Yes, you may need to adjust their oral care routine temporarily. We might recommend a soft diet for a day or two and gentle brushing around any treated areas to avoid irritation. Our team will provide you with specific, step-by-step aftercare instructions tailored to the exact procedure your child had before you go home.
As a parent, can I stay in the room with my child during the sedation and procedure?
For the utmost safety and to allow our medical team to focus completely on your child, we ask that parents wait in our designated waiting area during the actual procedure. You’ll be able to stay with your child right up until the sedation begins. We’ll take you back to them immediately as they start to wake up.
If my child has a cold or is feeling sick before the appointment, should we still come?
No, you should call our office immediately to reschedule. It’s not safe to administer sedation if your child has a fever, cough, congestion, or an active respiratory illness. The anesthesiologist will evaluate your child on the day of the procedure. If they’re sick, the appointment will be postponed for their safety.