Children tend to be anxious and scared of the dentist. From the sight of the instruments, the sound of the drill, pressure and pain, can not only traumatize the child, but make it almost impossible for the dentist to do any type of procedure.
Dental Sedation Help Children Overcome Anxiety
The National Library of Medicine recently published an article about how sedation techniques in pediatric dentistry can help children overcome anxiety and get the oral health care they need.
Over the last three decades, sedation has become a commonly used alternative to general anesthesia. However, it is worth noting that almost 80% of sedation-related emergencies initially present as respiratory compromise.
As the level of sedation deepens, the airway protective reflex decreases, and the likelihood of airway obstruction or foreign body aspiration increases.
Therefore, appropriate respiratory monitoring and airway management are essential during sedation procedures
With child safety in mind, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), have published guidelines to reduce the number of sedation related emergencies.
Guidelines are aimed at reducing the risks associated with sedation in children and ensuring safe patient monitoring. These guidelines are mostly consistent and follow the principles set out by the ASA. All guidelines for respiratory function monitoring recommend the following:
Continuous monitoring of oxygenation through pulse oximetry is necessary.
Ventilation should Be monitored periodically during moderate sedation and continuously during deep sedation and general anesthesia.
Monitoring equipment typically includes cardiac, blood pressure, pulse oximetry, and respiratory monitors.
It is crucial for the clinical team to be able to identify signs of a deteriorating patient and respond appropriately. While monitoring equipment is essential, there is no single piece of equipment that can replace the role of a capable and vigilant sedation provider who is responsible for monitoring the patient during the sedation procedure.
Safe Sedation Geared Towards The Needs Of The Patient
The Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist from Blue Sky Anesthesia Associates provide safe IV sedation for dental offices. Ensuring the most comfortable and safest way for children to have x-rays, cleanings, fillings, crowns, and other dental procedures all in one visit to the dentist.
They are specially trained in the anesthetic care of children. We believe in making your child’s visit to the dentist a positive experience. Our experience is geared toward the unique emotional and physical needs of the patient. We monitor blood pressure, heart action, and changes in breathing throughout the procedure.
