Do you think i should have my 5 year old sedated at the dentist?

Pediatrics: Sedate the child with the services of a pediatric dentist who is adequately trained in airway management. Otherwise, use distraction anxiolysis.

If required: Please seek the advice of a qualified pediatric dental specialist. They are trained to make these decisions with you for your child, and are trained (specialty residency training 2+ years beyond dental school) to manage this procedure, depending on many factors, in office or in hospital setting. Child management is different than adult management, so see a "kid's pro.".

If needed: You should sedate anyone, especially children, only if necessary and from my experience, as a last resort. Sometimes it is necessary but i feel most of the time it can be treated without sedation. If you do have sedation for the child, then make sure you go to someone that is qualified and trained properly.

Only if necessary: Most 5 year olds can be treated by a pediatric dentist (pedodontist) in an office setting with nitrous oxide\oxygen analgesia and\or mild oral sedation if necessary. It takes time to establish a child\dentist relationship, gain child's trust & perform any necessary dental procedures in office but is well worth the effort. When necessary, IV sedation is best performed in a hospital setting.