I saw brown spots on my toddler’s teeth. My two-year-old has massive cavities.I wasn’t sure how that can happen because I’m super diligent about my child’s teeth. I checked my nanny cam and our sitter is giving him a bottle all day long filled with juice. She’s even putting him down for naps with it! So he’s probably going to have to have two or three crowns. Our dentist said we’d need to do anesthesia for this because he’s so young. I’m just a little concerned about the safety of anesthesia on such a tiny body. Plus, do dentists do anesthesia?
Candice
Dear Candice,
There is nothing more frightening than when other people have control of what happens to our children, especially with medical issues. I’m sure you’re already on this, but it’s time to tell the nanny no more bottles of juice. And no bottles in bed. Plus, at two, your boy should be drinking from a sippy cup instead of a bottle.
As you’ve already discovered, the citric acid and sugar in juices can play havoc on teeth, especially when it’s allowed to pool while they sleep. All that being said, it’s fantastic that you were on top of this and noticed the brown spots on his teeth. Many adults assume toddlers won’t get cavities and the first time they notice anything is when there’s a dental emergency. That’s a distressing first introduction to the dentist for a child. You’re doing the right thing.
Dentists and Sedation
As to whether dentists can do sedation. Most only do nitrous oxide. Many dentists also do oral conscious sedation. Fewer do I.V. sedation. But, what you’re son is getting is a general anesthetic. Some dentists, like Dr. Arnold, have done a residency in anesthesia. Almost all procedures with a general anesthetic are done in the hospital.
While there are risks with any anesthesia, it’s considered very safe. Even newborns have had surgery done where they required anesthesia. Surgery is also performed on toddlers all the time.
It’s always a good idea to discuss what safety precautions are put in place by your dentist. He or she should be willing to answer any questions you have. If they’re not, you may be better served with another dentist. When you’re talking about the safety of your child (or even yourself) they should be compassionate enough to understand questions are normal.
This blog is brought to you by Dr. Fred Arnold.