The methods we use for safe treatment
In paediatric dentistry, safety matters even more than teeth. Below I explain in plain language the steps we take during examination and treatment, especially under sedation, and what they mean for your child.
Seeing the unseen, knowing the risk in advance
The goal of every examination is the same: to find the exact cause of the problem and choose the safest path for the child. And we always make the decision together with the parent.
- examination and check steps
- 3
- comfort and monitoring measures during treatment
- 3
Before treatment
Steps that confirm the diagnosis and reveal risks in advance.
Dental X-ray
Shows decay between the teeth, the condition of the roots, infection and the development of the permanent teeth. We first introduce the child to the machine, then take the image. We only take an X-ray when it will affect the treatment decision.
- Painless
- A few seconds
- Accurate diagnosis
Anaesthetic test dose
Before treatment we apply a very small amount of the local anaesthetic and watch the child’s reaction. If there is a reaction, we do not use that product and change the treatment plan.
- Precaution
- Allergy risk
Paediatrician clearance before sedation
Together with the paediatrician we assess the child’s past illnesses, operations, current medicines and present condition. If the paediatrician does not give clearance, we do not start sedation.
- Before every sedation
- Safety decision
During treatment
Conditions and monitoring that keep the child comfortable and safe.
Mask sedation
At the start of sedation the child breathes through a soft mask; we call it the “magic tasty gas”. We tell older children about it in advance so they know what will happen. The sedation is given by an anaesthetist.
- Supervised by an anaesthetist
- A gentle start
Monitoring
Throughout sedation the child’s breathing, pulse and blood oxygen level are tracked on a monitor. The child stays under our care until fully awake and stable.
- Throughout treatment
- Until fully awake
The magic treatment room
Our room is not a scary place for a child but a fairy-tale world: toys, cartoons and surprises for brave patients. We turn the examination into a game and find a thousand ways to say “open a little wider”.
- Through play
- Surprises
Which approach suits your child?
We work this out together at the examination. I take the child’s age, temperament and health as the starting point and offer only what is needed.