Baltimore Dental . COM
*CHILDREN'S TEETH*
Conscious Sedation
Q: What is conscious sedation?
A: Conscious sedation is a way of using medication to relax a child without the loss of
consciousness.
Q: Who should be sedated?
A: Children with severe anxiety and/or the inability to relax are candidates for sedation.
Usually these children are young or have trouble managing their anxiety.
Q: Why utilize conscious sedation?
A: Conscious sedation aids in calming a child so that she can accept dental treatment in a
more relaxed state. This can help prevent injury to the patient and provide a better
environment for providing dental care.
Q: What medications are used?
A: Many different agents can be used for conscious sedation, from inhalation agents to
medicines provided orally or by injection. None of these sedatives render the child
unconscious. Your pediatric dentist will discuss sedation recommendations.
Q: Is sedation safe?
A: Pediatric dentists are trained to administer, monitor and manage sedated patients. Your
pediatric dentist will discuss sedation options and procedures with you.
Q: What special instructions should I follow before the sedation appointment?
A: To alleviate potential anxiety your pediatric dentist may recommend minimal discussion
of the dental appointment with the child. Should your child become ill, contact your
pediatric dentist. It may be necessary to choose to arrange another appointment. It is
important not to have a meal before a sedation appointment. Your pediatric dentist will
inform you about food and fluid intake guidelines prior to the sedation appointment.
Q: What special instructions should I follow after the sedation appointment?
A: Children who have been sedated are usually requested to return home for the remainder
of the day with appropriate supervision. Your pediatric dentist will discuss specific
postsedation instructions with you, including appropriate diet, physical activity and
requested supervision.
