Pediatric Dentistry

[SMEinBangkok]

Hi,

 

Hoping the resident experts might have a suggestion for me.  My 2.5 year old daughter has been following a strict Thai diet of too many sweets, in my absence, and now she has a few cavities that need to be filled.  Our first experience with this was pretty tough.  Took her to a really nice and well-regarded clinic in Udom Suk.  The staff were great and very caring, but they offer nothing in the way of nitrous oxide or a mild sedative.  Instead I watched as they strapped my beautiful little baby girl in a full body restraint and proceeded to fill her cavities.  It was heart breaking to see the fear and terror in her eyes, and she literally seemed to fight for her life.  I know the pain wasn't that bad because she got some novacaine.....the problem is she needs to go back 4 more times because they only want to do one thing at a time, and I understand that.

 

Does anyone know of a reputable clinic or hospital that will offer some sort of gas or mild sedation dental treatment for children?  I don't want to traumatize her with 4 more trips to the same place, but I don't think general anesthesia is a good alternative, either.

 

Thanks

[Sheryl]

https://www.samitivejhospitals.com/en/smichcenters/pediatric-dental-clinic/

 

" In cases when a child is very small, afraid of dentists, has severe tooth decay, or is unable to cooperate due to a disability, our clinic can assist by using sedative medication or gas allowing the child to sleep through the entire process. "

 

 

 

[SMEinBangkok]

Thanks Sheryl....Samitivej was the first place I contacted and they said they don't do sedation for dentistry.  After checking with a few other international hospitals, it seems like the only option is for general anesthesia.  Apparently nitrous oxide is never used....which is unfortunate because it seems like it would be enough to relieve her anxiety, but not as 'drastic' or potentially dangerous as general anesthesia.

[Sheryl]

Did you specifically contact Samitivej Childen's hospital dental clinic? As there are several Samitivej Hospital locations.

 

The number is 02-378-9121/2

 

Their website specifically states sedative or gas is used.

 

 

[SMEinBangkok]

Hi Sheryl,

 

Very sorry for missing your note...apologies.  I was in the US for a week and then forgot to check this account.  Like so many websites in Thailand this one is not accurate and/or out of date.  I specifically mentioned what was on the website and they said they don't do it.  I have been unable to find a single dentist in Thailand that offers gas.  A few hospitals will do general anesthesia, but I was quoted some pretty high prices.  Plus, I was concerned about doing that.  My little girl did pretty well on her first of two appointment at BNH.  Fantastic pediatric dentist there, who went out of her way to explain everything to me.  Prices were on the high side compared to a regular clinic, but I'm glad we did it.  The second appointment will be more difficult because she needs a root canal and crowns.