Sedation Dentistry Specialist

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry uses FDA-approved medication to help your child relax while receiving oral health care. It makes it possible for the team to complete one (or multiple) procedures while eliminating fear and discomfort. 

At Kids Klub Pediatric Dentistry, the team recommends sedation dentistry to children who:

• Have a low pain tolerance
• Can’t sit still for long periods
• Have sensitive teeth
• Have a bad gag reflex
  
  

Your child might also benefit if they need extensive dental work completed.

What are the types of sedation dentistry?

The team at Kids Klub Pediatric Dentistry offers several types of sedation, including:

Conscious sedation with nitrous oxide

During conscious sedation, your child breathes a combination of oxygen and nitrous oxide (laughing gas) through a mask over their nose. Nitrous oxide causes feelings of euphoria, ensuring your child is comfortable throughout treatment. 

Nitrous oxide wears off quickly, so your child can return to school or other routine activities following treatment.  

Oral sedation

Oral sedation uses prescription drugs like Halcion® to make your child feel drowsy and relaxed. About an hour before your child’s appointment, they take a pill orally at home. By the time they arrive at the office, the medication kicks in, allowing for a comfortable and entirely pain-free procedure.

Oral sedation takes several hours to wear off. Following treatment, it’s important your child relaxes and drinks plenty of fluids. 

General anesthesia with IV sedation

During general anesthesia, the team administers medication through a needle into your child’s vein. The medication bypasses their digestive system altogether, making them fall asleep quickly. Throughout treatment, your child’s provider can adjust the level of sedation, ensuring their comfort. 

General sedation is like oral sedation in that it takes several hours to wear off. Following treatment, encourage your child to relax and drink plenty of fluids. 

Is sedation dentistry safe?

Sedation dentistry is safe and typically well-tolerated. At your child’s first appointment, let the team know about any underlying health problems they have, like diabetes or a congenital heart defect. These issues won’t necessarily prevent them from receiving sedation dentistry, but they may increase the risk of potential complications. 

In addition, let the team know about any prescription medication, vitamins, or nutritional supplements your child takes. Certain drugs can interact with anesthesia, making it less effective. 

To learn more about sedation dentistry, make an appointment for your child at Kids Klub Pediatric Dentistry by calling the office or using the online booking tool.