It's an all-too-familiar scenario - a child that's scared to go to the dentist. But what should you do when the problem is acute?

Raisingkids member's problem
What do you do if you have a 10 year old who refuses to let the dentist touch her for an examination let alone any treatment? The dentist has suggested sedation but seems too drastic to me!

Dental expert's advice
If your daughter is particularly nervous of dental treatment, it's important to understand the reason for that, which may help in solving the problem. It is obviously important for her teeth to be regularly looked after to prevent her developing more serious problems. And if that means sedation, then that may be the most sensible option. This can take several forms from relative analgesia, similar to the gas and air used in childbirth, sedation using tablets before the appointment, or an intravenous sedation for the appointment itself. Relaxation therapy or hypnosis may also be useful.

The important thing is to establish a pattern of treatment with which your daughter is comfortable. It is likely after this that she can gradually be weaned off sedation, initially for simple examinations and later for all treatment.

Your dentist may also suggest a referral to the Community Dental Department. They are a specialised service organised by the Local Primary Care Trust. They have clinics located throughout the area and they treat children, patients with medical conditions and patients with phobias. They have a lot more time available to spend with their patients and can therefore spend the required time explaining the treatment. If necessary, they are in a position to offer sedation in order to help your child tolerate the visits.