My 9 yr old daughter is at a new dentist that she really likes. We’ve had our 3rd visit to the new dentist. Even though my daughter likes the dentist and her staff, she still get really nervous. This is all coming from the previous family dentist who I thought was nice but later found out intimidates kids if they even look like they don’t want to be there. I describe it as passive aggressive or nice/nasty. Kids can pick up on that behavior quickly and my daughter did. I didn’t know it was a problem because I didn’t usually go back with her to the room for cleanings. I thought she was in good hands and she never complained. I didn’t find out about it until my niece was visiting and talking about her own dental appointment. Then my daughter started talking about her previous dentist. After I found out that our previous dentist was trouble, I quickly switched my daughter and our whole family to a new practice. As I mentioned in the beginning, she is still nervous. Now her nervousness is obvious to me. The new dentist gives her nitrous which really doesn’t seem to calm her much. I am not happy about asking for something stronger, but is there something else that I should ask for? Zuli
Zuli – Yes, there are safe oral sedatives that dentists use for children. You can ask your family dentist if she uses oral sedatives for children who need more help relaxing than what nitrous oxide provides.
You will need to inform your dentist of any medications, over-the-counter medications, and supplements your daughter takes. Find out what medication your dentist uses and do your own research on it. Look for possible reactions with the sedative that may interfere with medication or supplements your daughter takes. If you are uncertain about possible reactions, ask your pharmacist and your daughter’s pediatrician about it.
Oral conscious sedation is a new phase of dentistry for your daughter. You may consider increasing her comfort level with this new phase by accompanying her in the treatment room for at least a few visits.
This post is sponsored by Plano dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.