Autistic DD needs an operation, so upset

[SaunteringDownwards]

I appreciate I'm probably being a bit dramatic but I'm so worried and upset. DD is 9 and autistic, she's had nothing but issues with her teeth since she was very poorly at 4 and today we've found out her enamel on most of her back teeth didn't develop properly. As a result the Dentist at the hospital has suggested she be put to sleep to have 8 (8!!) of her teeth out to make room for others with healthy enamel to come through.

DD has handled the news very well so far but I'm beside myself. I've had 25 surgeries but none of my DC's ever have and the idea of her being distressed and put to sleep has really upset me (though I've hidden it from DD, obviously). I'm just so scared something will go wrong or she'll become hysterical or have lots of pain.

I just think I need some reassurance and a hand hold this evening, gotten myself in to a state!

It will be ok. Worse for you than for your DD!
My autistic DS2 was either 9 or 10 when he had to have seven teeth removed under GA. There was nothing wrong with the teeth either, but he had a rare condition where the teeth could not fall out and were sinking back into the bone so had to be removed to allow his second teeth to come down. He also has learning disabilities and I was dreading it, but the nurses and dental surgeon were lovely, it was over very quickly, and thanks to him having an incredibly high pain threshold he was eating and drinking quickly afterwards.

As long as you are calm and matter of fact and don't flap and look anxious, she will be ok.

She doesn’t have to be distressed - you can request a pre-med for her, they work fabulously! Took away all of teen DD’s anxiety before major surgery and just made her relaxed and happy. I stayed with her whilst she was being put to sleep. Honestly she was so calm, brilliant anaesthetist, no drama at all and she woke up in the same way. No trauma or distress involved whatsoever for either of us. As it was such a positive experience DD now has no fear whatsoever of going under anaesthetic and actually finds it quite cool. Subsequent surgeries have been a breeze, no pre-meds even needed