Q: What is conscious sedation?

A: Conscious sedation is a way of using medicine to calm a child without the child going to sleep.

Q: Who should be sedated?

A: Children who are extremely nervous and/or are not able to relax are candidates for
sedation. Usually these children are young or have trouble handling their nervousness.

Q: Why use conscious sedation?

A: Conscious sedation helps in calming a child so that he/she can accept dental treatment in a more relaxed manner. 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 kinds of medications can be used for conscious sedation- some medications are inhaled and others are given by mouth or by injection. None of these will cause the child to go to sleep.

Q: Is sedation safe?

A: Pediatric dentists are trained to give the medication and monitor and care for sedated patients. Your pediatric dentist will talk with you about your choices and procedures.

Q. What special instructions should I follow before the sedation appointment?

A. To prevent possible nervousness, your pediatric dentist may suggest little discussion of the dental appointment with the child. It is important the child not eat a meal before a sedation appointment. Your pediatric dentist will tell you about food and drinks the child may or may not have before the sedation appointment. If your child becomes ill, call your pediatric dentist- it may be necessary to reschedule the appointment.

Q. What special instructions should I follow after the sedation appointment?

A: Children who have been sedated are usually asked to stay home for the rest of the say with appropriate supervision. Your pediatric dentist will talk with you about what to do after sedation, including the right diet, physical activity and supervision.