Inhalation anaesthesia

The first visit at an orthodontist’s practice is usually related to great stress for the child, however, it is frequently of paramount importance for the course of the treatment. New surroundings, unknown people and equipment usually cause anxiety. Earlier unpleasant experiences (e. g. past dental visits that the child remembers) or even hearsay may efficiently make the child averse to the treatment.

For a good start

If the child remembers their visits at the orthodontist’s practice well, then they will not fear the treatment of teeth that may possibly accompany them throughout their entire life. Much depends on the problem that the little patient has. Most cases require the child to be calmed down by the physician, who will show them around the room and skilfully explain how the individual pieces of equipment work. There are situations, however, when this is not enough – in that case, inhalation anaesthesia is the recommended solution.

Inhalation anaesthesia – a safe way to counter anxiety

Deep anxiety before tooth treatment can be related to various fears of the child or earlier unpleasant experiences. Inhalation anaesthesia is also used if treatment must be commenced that is expected to be painful. It is a completely secure of calming the patient down. Laughing gas, or a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen (N₂O, O₂) is administered to the child by way of a special mask. It gradually relieves the anxiety related to the procedure, while allowing the child to remain conscious. The patient is not afraid, and their susceptibility to pain is reduced. The child may feel as if they were flying or swimming and they are relaxed. Side effects may include some nausea or drowsiness after the procedure itself.

Efficient treatment without stress

A child that does not fear a visit at the orthodontist’s practice will much more eagerly adhere to the medical indications at home. Hence, care for a positive image of meetings with the doctor is the basis of efficient treatment. The advantage of inhalation anaesthesia in children is also the fact that the child becomes mentally more robust, with time leading to inhalation anaesthesia becoming redundant.