What is pediatric dental sedation?

Pediatric dentistry is the specialty of dentistry that focuses on the oral health and unique needs of young people.

Although most dental offices claim they are ‘pediatric dentists’ and will work on your child’s mouth, they actually aren’t. They may be talented, but they haven’t truly specialized in working with infants and children. It is not very common.

It is important to verify your dentist’s credentials. A pediatric dentist requires more training and experience than some dentists have.

After completing a four-year dental school curriculum, two to three additional years of rigorous training is required to become a pediatric dentist. This specialized program of study and hands-on experience prepares pediatric dentists to meet the unique needs of your infants, children and adolescents, including persons with special health care needs.

Make sure to talk to the doctor about what kind of sedation will be used. Unlike general anesthesia (which effects make the child unconscious), pediatric dental sedation is only intended to minimize anxiety and discomfort during their dental visit. The child may become drowsy or less active while sedated, but this will quickly go away after the procedure is completed.