Pediatric Dentistry: Sedation Dentistry

Deep Sedation And Anesthesia: Pros And Cons

Deep sedation and anesthesia both offer pros and cons worth considering.

Pros Of Deep Sedation And Anesthesia

Dental phobia is common. Studies vary, with some concluding high levels of dental anxiety affect 19% of patients. In contrast, others suggest as many as four out of every five patients suffer from high levels of dental anxiety. Another study of children ages 10 to 14 found 42% suffered from dental fear. Deep sedation and anesthesia reduce or eliminate the patient’s awareness during the procedure, enabling them to receive dental care without disruption. 

Deep sedation and anesthesia can help prevent dental anxiety because patients don’t remember any pain they associate with their treatment.

Deep sedation or anesthesia is more relaxing for those who do not suffer from dental anxiety or fear. Some patients may favor these options because they feel more comfortable when they aren’t aware of what’s happening during their dental treatment. 

Cons Of Deep Sedation And Anesthesia

When patients receive mild or moderate sedation, they’re usually able to follow their dentist’s directions during the procedure. When patients are fully sedated, they cannot. 

It takes longer for patients to recover from deep sedation than mild or moderate sedation. The recovery period is the longest for those receiving anesthesia, and patients must be monitored until they’re ready to go home. 

Both deep sedation and anesthesia can interfere with breathing, and some patients need to be put on a ventilator to help them breathe during the procedure.

Absolute Dental: Delivering Smiles And Eliminating Fears 

Expert dental care is crucial for your child’s oral health and self-confidence. Absolute Dental’s Smile Saver plan and special offers on dental services ensure you can get your child expert dental care, even if you don’t have insurance. We have 24-hour pediatric dentists available for dental emergencies, and our dental team keeps appointment slots open for walk-ins when emergencies arise. 

Our team will explain the treatment options, including the sedation options, and how to choose what’s best for your child to ensure they have a positive treatment experience while receiving the care they need.

Sources:

A Child’s First Dental Visit Fact Sheet. (2024). 

Fletcher, J. (2023). What to know about dental anxiety?

Guidelines for the Use of Sedation and General Anesthesia by Dentists. (2016). 

Kakkar, M., et al. (2016). Prevalence of dental anxiety in 10-14 years old and its implications.