When you take your child to the dentist, you never dream something could go wrong. Unfortunately, there are dangers many parents are not aware of, and can be tragic.
Good oral health care is important for children and adults, but due to fear, anxiety, disabilities, special needs, gag reflex, or a number of other reasons, it isn’t always easy to achieve.
Some type of anesthesia is typically required for their appointment. According to an investigation from the Dallas Morning News, every other day in America, a dental patient dies. While these tragedies are not common, there are still too many of them.
Many of these situations are associated with anesthesia. Since the airways of children are smaller than adults, they can choke easier. It just takes a small obstruction, such as a little bit of blood.
Experts encourage parents to ask their dentist questions
What type of procedures will they perform, and are they really necessary?
Ask about their training, especially when it comes to anesthesia and sedation.
What type of sedation will your child be receiving and what medication? Don’t settle for “just something to relax them”, or “just a couple of pills”.
Will there be a separate general anesthesia, such as a CRNA, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, provider?
This is someone who is qualified to administer the sedation, will monitor your child during and after the procedure. They can tailor the medication as needed, immediately recognize and respond to any changes in the patient. This also allows the dentist to focus on the treatments while the CRNA focuses on your child’s vitals, EKG, blood pressure, pulse oximetry and end tidal carbon dioxide monitors.
If you want answers to these questions or have questions of your own, contact Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, Dwayne Thibeault. With over 20 years experience, our goal to create a personalized and individual sedation plan.
Dwayne Thibeault is an active member of the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA), the Florida Association of Nurse Anesthetists (FANA) and the New Hampshire Association of Nurse Anesthetists (NHANA).
