Pre-medication is frequently used when a child is either too young to understand, or simply cannot cooperate for, the dental visit. The two common medicines that we prescribe for our patients are Vistaril or Valium.  Medication is prescribed based on the child’s weight and age. It’s called conscious sedation, hence your child will be awake through the entire procedure but a little drowsy !!

Pre-medication is often used to help manage:

  • Very young age: infant/toddlers
  • High anxiety or fear
  • Special need youngsters who are mentally/physically challenged
  • Extreme gag reflex

The desired effect of the pre-medication is a state of calm, drowsiness, or slight disorientation. Your child will become unsteady and, as a result, must be closely supervised to prevent falling.

Please follow these important instructions to help make the visit as safe and positive as possible:

  • Give the prescribed medicine on an empty stomach so it can be absorbed well and produce the desired effect.
  • Dress your child in loose fitting clothing.
  • Bring an extra diaper or pull-ups if your child is not toilet trained. The medicine can sometimes cause loose bowels.
  • Have someone accompany you who can drive while you focus on your child.
  • If local anesthetic is used, do not allow your child to bite, scratch, or suck the lips, tongue or cheek for 2-3 hours.
  • After the appointment, carefully supervise your child’s activities because he /she may stumble or fall. Sleeping for a few hours is expected. The medication will wear off within a few hours.

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