Sedation Dentistry
In-Office General Anesthesia
We recognize that some of our young patients may feel anxious or apprehensive about receiving dental care. Our doctors and staff work hard to make sure that your child has a comfortable, positive experience, and that's why we are pleased to offer sedation with our anesthesiologist for those patients needing a little extra comfort before receiving treatment. Feeling anxious about receiving dental care should never prevent having a beautiful, healthy smile.
We work closely with a local anesthesiologist that will come to our office to administer customized sedation dentistry that is safe and effective.
How sedation dentistry works
Our anesthesiologist will gently administer medication to help your child into a deeper state of relaxation. Once treatment is complete, your child will wake up feeling refreshed, with little or no memory of the appointment and a beautiful new smile. Using sedation dentistry, we are able to complete many different procedures, including complex smile makeovers, in just one office visit.
Common questions about sedation dentistry
Will my child feel anything during treatment?
In most cases, patients do not feel anything. There is very little discomfort, and many patients wake up feeling relaxed and comfortable with almost no memory of the treatment.
Is sedation dentistry safe?
Sedation dentistry is a safe and effective way for many patients to receive dental treatment. Before starting treatment with sedation, the doctor will talk with you and help you decide if sedation is right for your child’s treatment.
How long will it take the sedation to wear off?
The time it takes for the sedatives to wear off depends on the dose received, how long the treatment is, and how quick your child’s body can recover.
Is my child a good candidate for sedation dentistry?
Any patients who experience dental anxiety are good candidates for sedation dentistry. If your child has any of the following fears or concerns, ask your doctor about sedation dentistry as an option for his or her next dental treatment:
- Extreme dental anxiety or fear of visiting the dentist
- Fear of needles and/or shots
- Past traumatic dental experience
- Can't handle the smells or noises of being at a dentist's office
- Has overly sensitive teeth, a strong gag reflex, or trouble getting numb
- Requires a more complex dental treatment
- Wishes to have a more comfortable dental treatment
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is the most frequently used method for easing mild to moderate anxiety in children. Administered through a small mask that fits over your child’s nose, it is an effective way to calm anxiety. Your child will be asked to breathe through his or her nose and not through their mouth. As the gas begins to work, your child will become calm, although he or she will still be awake and able to talk with the dentist.
At the end of your child’s appointment, he or she will resume breathing regular oxygen, and all the effects of nitrous oxide will disappear. As your child gets older and becomes more comfortable during dental visits, nitrous oxide may not be necessary.
