Moms who take good care of their teeth are less likely to have children with tooth decay
numbing is done to the surface tissue fi rst to reduce discomfort of the injection. Injected lo- cal anesthesia has dual effects: the loss of sen- sation at the site and the constriction of local blood vessels, keeping the medication in the site area for prolonged action. It is absorbed eventually, and sensation returns. While the area is numb, it’s important to remind the child not to chew or eat on the affected side, and never to bite his lips or cheeks. The child’s medical history, developmental
and mental ability, and dental needs determine the type of sedation for treatment. Light seda- tion is achieved with nitrous oxide. Deemed safe and effective, it’s a common additional anxiety-reducing method that enables coopera- tion, so treatment is done more effi ciently and successfully. Nitrous oxide is a gas that impacts the central nervous system, resulting in a euphoric feeling. It’s absorbed and excreted quickly, lasting only minutes once shut off. A child remains conscious and responsive. Parents may be upset that their child
has oral disease and needs treatment under sedation. They may have concerns about the
Ready, Set, Grow
effects of sedation on young brains, or may have deep-seated fears of the outcome of the process. The choice of method involves aspects of safety, best practices and least trauma to the child and family. Deep sedation and
general anesthesia should be performed only by individuals qualifi ed and licensed to provide such
services. Pediatric dentists complete advanced training and education in the administration of deep and general sedation, following AAPD and ADA guidelines. General sedation administered in a dental offi ce must be done by a licensed, credentialed professional who is responsible for the anesthesia administration and patient monitoring. The dentist provides the dental care. Children with complicated medical conditions
and/or behavior management issues require dental treatment done within a hospital setting. Regardless of your child’s dental needs,
setting up a dental home, establishing den- tal care and modeling good oral habits will go a long way toward preventing and treating dental decay.
Diane Limbo, MSN, RN, CPNP, is a PNP working with the American Academy of Pediatrics and University of Southern California dental faculty, providing oral health education to professionals, community educators and families. She also serves as adjunct faculty at UCI School of Nurs- ing and other nursing programs.
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