Sedation for Paediatric Dentistry

Age Requirement

Paediatric procedural sedation is provided only for children aged three years and older. Children under three require specialised anaesthetic care in a hospital setting. This age threshold is based on SASA guidelines and reflects the physiological differences that make very young children unsuitable for sedation outside a hospital theatre.

How Paediatric Dental Sedation Works

Dr Nienaber works closely with paediatric dentists to create a calm, reassuring environment. You may remain with your child until sedation begins and they feel relaxed. Local anaesthetic cream is applied to the hand or arm beforehand to minimise discomfort from the IV insertion.

Using TCI technology, sedation is delivered with precision, adjusted continuously to your child's individual response. Your child will feel drowsy and relaxed, and most children have no memory of the dental procedure afterward.

What to Expect

Approximately 20 per cent of children experience temporary double vision or blurriness lasting up to six hours. Increased emotional responses, such as extra crying or clinginess, are entirely normal. Some children may be temporarily irritable. These effects resolve on their own and are not a cause for concern.

Safety and Monitoring

Full monitoring is maintained throughout: heart rate, oxygen saturation, blood pressure, ECG, and breathing. Resuscitation equipment and drugs are present at every case. Dr Nienaber remains with your child from the moment sedation begins until they are safely in recovery.

Recovery

A responsible adult must take your child home and remain with them for the rest of the day. After dental procedures, watch carefully that your child does not bite their numb lip or tongue. Introduce fluids slowly and allow extra rest. Detailed parent-specific pre- and post-sedation instructions are provided.

Preparing Your Child

Complete and submit your child's medical history form at least 24 hours before the procedure. Follow fasting guidelines precisely: no solid food or milk for six hours, no clear fluids for two hours. If your child becomes unwell before the appointment, contact Dr Nienaber immediately, as even minor illness may require postponement.