We’re trained and licensed in pediatric dental sedation, ensuring every child can receive the care they need.
Dental sedation for kids
While we use tried-and-true behavior management techniques, sometimes a child still isn’t able to safely undergo treatment. In these cases, sedation is an option. Our office is fully equipped with advanced monitoring equipment and we’re trained and licensed in administering sedation. Dr. Hayes will discuss the pros and cons and help you make an informed choice for your child.
Who Can Benefit From Dental Sedation?
- Kids with dental anxiety
- Very young children
- Kids who need extensive, lengthy treatment
- Children with certain special health care needs
- Kids with a severe gag reflex
- Any child whose actions or movements during a procedure could be dangerous
The Types of Sedation
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is a safe, mild form of sedation that has very few side effects and is delivered through a mask over your child’s nose. It kicks in within minutes and wears off just as quickly, meaning kids can go back to daycare, school or regular activities after their appointment.
Nitrous oxide decreases anxiety and discomfort, so treatment can be finished quickly and safely. As kids breathe in the laughing gas, it makes them feel relaxed and euphoric, but they remain awake and able to respond to commands during treatment.
General Anesthesia
With general anesthesia, your child will be in a deep sleep. They won’t feel or remember treatment at all. If we determine general anesthesia is safe for your child, they’ll need to follow all pre-operative instructions.
An anesthesiologist will administer the anesthesia and monitor your child’s vitals. General anesthesia is usually reserved for kids who need extensive treatment and can’t receive it safely with other methods due to their age, a special health care need or extreme dental anxiety.
Minimal Sedation
Minimal sedation, or conscious sedation, is where Dr. Hayes prescribes an oral medication for your child to take before their procedure. Depending on the sedative and dose, it will offer mild to moderate sedation.
We’ll examine your child and review their medical history to ensure the medication prescribed will be safe and effective. Your child or teen will be awake during the procedure and able to respond to directions, though they might not clearly remember the visit when the medication wears off.
Benefits Of
Sedation
Helps kids relax
Sedation dulls discomfort and relaxes patients, helping to make procedures more efficient and stress-free.
Makes treatment safer
In some cases, sedation is the best way to ensure a child is still and cooperative enough to safely receive treatment.
Works for different needs
Sedation can be tailored to your child’s needs, and it’s effective for a range of patients, including very young children or those with severe anxiety.
Book an appointment
Book An
