Helping nervous patients get the care they need for a healthy smile.
What is Pediatric Dental Sedation?
Pediatric dental sedation is a treatment technique that helps children to feel more relaxed and at ease during dental procedures. This is especially helpful for children who may feel anxious or have special healthcare needs. When performed by a board-certified pediatric dentist like Dr. Dana, sedation is completely safe and can help patients successfully receive the care they need. At the end of the day, the goal is to create a stress-free experience that promotes a positive relationship with oral health.
What’s it All About?
The Benefits of Pediatric Sedation
Anxiety Reduction
Anxiety Reduction
Anxiety Reduction
It’s common for children to feel nervous about going to the dentist. Pediatric sedation helps alleviate dental anxiety, ensuring children feel comfortable and at ease during their visits. This positive experience fosters trust and minimizes future anxiety.
Pain Management
Pain Management
Pain Management
When used alongside local anesthetic, pain and discomfort are effectively managed through pediatric sedation, making dental treatments less stressful for children. It ensures a pain-free experience and encourages regular dental care.
Enhanced Cooperation
Enhanced Cooperation
Enhanced Cooperation
Many kids can have a hard time sitting still for the duration of their dental treatment. Sedation promotes cooperation, especially during more extensive procedures. It allows dentists to provide necessary treatments efficiently while the child remains relaxed.
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Our Sedation Options
Laughing Gas (Nitrous Oxide)
Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is a safe and gentle sedative administered through a comfortable mask. It induces relaxation and eases anxiety without rendering the child unconscious, so they can still respond to questions and commands during treatment. Plus, the effects wear off in minutes, and lingering side effects are extremely rare, making it suitable for even the youngest patients.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral conscious sedation is a procedure that involves the use of prescribed medication to induce a relaxed state. Although children remain conscious, they are less aware of the treatment, which helps reduce their fear and anxiety. The effects of the medication can last for several hours after the procedure, but Dr. Dana will provide you with aftercare instructions and guidance to ensure a successful recovery.
General Anesthesia
General anesthesia is used for more complex medical procedures or for children who have special needs. It is administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist and involves temporarily putting the child to sleep, ensuring a painless and stress-free experience. The effects of general anesthesia can last for up to a full day. Therefore, it is important to follow Dr. Dana's aftercare instructions and allow your child to rest and recover.
"My favorite thing about being a pediatric dentist is that I am given the unique opportunity to be a pillar in the development of a child's oral health and that I get to grow long-term relationships with these children and their families, fulfilling my deep-rooted desire to serve others well."
- Dr. Dana Saucier
Get the Down Low
FAQs
Have questions? We’ve got answers
Is pediatric sedation safe?
Yes, pediatric sedation is safe when administered by trained professionals who follow strict protocols and monitor the child throughout the procedure. Your child's safety and comfort are our top priorities.
Will my child be asleep during sedation?
Not necessarily. Pediatric sedation offers varying levels of consciousness. For example, laughing gas keeps children awake but relaxed, while general anesthesia renders them temporarily asleep. The choice depends on the procedure and your child's needs.
How should I prepare my child for sedation?
Preparation involves fasting before the appointment and following specific guidelines provided by our team. We'll discuss preparation details during your consultation to ensure a smooth sedation experience.