Dental Treatment for Children Under Sedation (Sleep Dentistry)

In an ideal world, all children would have healthy teeth. And even if treatment were necessary, they would willingly visit a paediatric dentist and smile through every procedure. However, the reality is different. Tooth decay is common among children, as is a fear of the dentist. This fear, known as dentophobia, often discourages both parents and children from pursuing proper dental care, care that is essential to preserving their teeth. Modern paediatric dentistry offers a solution: dental treatment under sedation (sleep dentistry).

There are two key reasons why this method is used for children. Firstly, it helps reduce the stress and anxiety associated with dental visits. Secondly, it allows dentists to carry out comprehensive treatment in one appointment, even when a child might otherwise resist or struggle with sitting still in the dental chair.

Sometimes, adaptation appointments alone are not enough to ease a child’s fear. In such cases, sedation makes it possible to complete treatment safely, efficiently, and without trauma. It also eliminates the emotional strain a child may feel when exposed to unfamiliar instruments and sensations during dental procedures. In some cases, sedation is not just an option but a necessity, especially for complex procedures or surgical interventions. If your child requires extensive treatment, sleep dentistry may be the best choice, ensuring a stress-free experience and positive outcome.

Dental treatment under sedation is used only when clinically justified. If your dentist recommends it as the best option, it’s important not to delay — in paediatric dentistry, timing is critical. Early treatment can help prevent further complications.

What is dental treatment under sedation?

The process starts with a consultation with a paediatric dentist who knows your child’s case and can assess whether sedation is appropriate.

• Before proceeding, the anaesthesiologist will also consult with the parents to gather the child’s medical history and identify any contraindications to sedation.
• Based on this assessment, the anaesthesiologist will determine the safest dosage and method of sedation. This type of consultation is conducted by an anaesthesiologist, who makes a final decision and determines the optimal dose of anaesthesia for the child.

No special preparation is required apart from fasting — your child must not eat or drink anything for a set period before the procedure, as instructed by your dentist or anaesthesiologist.

Sleep dentistry is a safe and effective solution for children who experience high anxiety or have special needs or medical conditions that make conventional treatment difficult.

Also known as general anaesthesia or sedation, this approach is offered at ‘Sa-Nata’ clinics under the supervision of qualified professionals, including experienced anaesthesiologists and licensed medical staff, who ensure your child’s comfort and safety throughout the entire procedure.

Medical sedation is administered under the supervision of experienced professionals, such as anaesthesiologists or licensed medical practitioners, who ensure the child’s safety and comfort throughout the procedure. With this method, the child remains in a calm, sleep-like state during treatment. The dentist can carry out all necessary procedures — including the removal of decayed teeth, root canal therapy, or dental restorations — while the child remains in deep, controlled sleep.

When using sedation or general anaesthesia, it is essential to follow your dentist’s instructions and carefully consider all potential risks and benefits. Doing so will help you make an informed decision regarding your child’s dental treatment under sedation.