Sometimes our youngest patients feel anxious or apprehensive about receiving dental care. The experienced dentists and hygienists at Smilez Pediatric Dental Group want to change that; we work hard to ensure your child’s time in the dental chair is as comfortable and positive as it can be — and sometimes that means dental sedation.
How sedation dentistry works
We are is proud to offer three different forms of pediatric dental sedation. Depending on your child’s anxiety level as well as his health needs, Smilez Pediatric Dental Group might recommend the use of nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, or general anesthesia. But no matter, when you and your child arrive here, our staff will be waiting for you and will escort you and your child to a private treatment room.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide is a proven and safe sedation method for children. This colorless, slightly sweet gas is inhaled during dental treatment to relax and relieve any anxiety. Your child will be conscious, able to swallow, talk and cough as needed. Your child can resume normal activities following the treatment with nitrous.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral conscious sedation is a good choice for children with moderate anxiety or children who are very young, relaxing him just enough to keep him safe and prevent injury from uncontrolled movements. Our staff will administer a liquid medicine that will sedate him, but keep him conscious and able to maintain his airway.
General Anesthesia
Children who experience severe anxiety; children with special needs; or children who require extensive dental work may be candidates for sedation dentistry using general anesthesia. For that reason, we are proud to partner with the anesthesiologists at Horizon Anesthesia to provide general anesthesia services in our office. General anesthesia differs from oral sedation in that the child is completely asleep, and will be continuously monitored.