We get it — going to the dentist isn’t always easy for children. Many kids have a hard time sitting still, which can make dental care difficult. Others may be anxious or scared about visiting the dentist. With our sedation options, your child can feel totally comfortable and relaxed during their treatment. It’s just one of the many ways we make each visit a positive experience.
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Why Should I Choose Pediatric Sedation For My Child?
Pediatric sedation is a good option to consider for your child’s dental appointments because it can make a big difference in how they view the dentist. It helps keep them calm and relaxed, especially if they struggle to sit still or get nervous. This way, the dentist can do their work with ease, and your child won’t feel scared or uncomfortable. It's all about making sure they get the dental care they need in the most stress-free way possible. Just have a talk with Dr. Barnes to see if it's the right fit for your child’s needs.
Did you know…
Pediatric sedation can be tailored to each child's specific needs and comfort.
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Laughing Gas for Little Smiles
The most mild form of sedation, nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas or minimally inhaled sedation, is a safe way to ensure your child stays relaxed during their treatment.
Oral Conscious Sedation Options
Oral conscious sedation is taken in liquid or pill form, and can be administered 30-60 minutes before your child’s treatment. It’s a great option for kiddos with more severe dental anxiety, or those undergoing more complex procedures.
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In-Office Deep Sedation/General Anesthesia
General anesthesia, or deep sedation, puts patients completely to sleep and is performed in-house or in a hospital setting by a certified dental anesthesiologist. Often used for complex or long procedures, many patients can benefit from deep sedation, including children who are pre-cooperative, as well as those with sensory issues, sensitive gag reflexes, extensive treatment needs, and more.
Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist
Rest assured that your child is receiving top-notch, specialized care with Dr. Breanna Barnes, our Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist. To be recognized by The American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, doctors must undergo extensive training in the pediatric field in addition to their standard dental degrees.
Surgery Center Privileges
If your child has certain medical conditions or is too young to be sedated in-office, Dr. Barnes has surgery center privileges. This means your child can have general anesthesia performed by a certified pediatric anesthesiologist in a safely monitored environment. We may also recommend treatment at a surgery center for insurance purposes, to ensure you can use your benefits.
Complimentary Meet & Greets
Overcoming the fear of going to the dentist can be a challenge. That’s why we encourage parents to bring their little ones for a tour of the office and to meet the team. Dr. Barnes and the rest of the team will show them how cool going to the dentist can be, so they can get excited about their oral health!
The Benefits of Pediatric Sedation
Reducing Fear and Dental Anxiety
Visiting the dentist can be intimidating for children, especially for procedures like fillings. Sedation allows your child to feel calm and relaxed, ensuring a more comfortable experience during their dental appointment.
Minimizing Pain and Discomfort
When used with local anesthetics, sedation is highly effective in minimizing any potential pain and discomfort during dental treatments. This not only makes the process smoother for your child but also gives you peace of mind knowing they are comfortable.
Addressing Gag Reflex and Needle Phobia
Certain types of sedation can significantly reduce your child’s gag reflex. This is particularly beneficial for dental work on the back teeth. Sedation also helps alleviate the common fear of numbing needles.
The Pediatric Sedation Treatment Process
Initial Consultation & Approval
Before considering sedation for your child, Dr. Barnes will evaluate their health history, current medications, supplements, and other relevant health information. If your child is a good candidate, you will be informed about the available sedation options and which one will best suit their needs.
Preparation & Sedation
Dr. Barnes will let you know if there’s anything you need to prepare before your child’s appointment. On the day of the visit, your child will receive sedation in our office, helping them stay calm and comfortable during their treatment.
Sedation Aftercare
Your child’s recovery process depends on the type of sedation used. They may recover within just a few minutes or require some special aftercare and monitoring after their appointment. Dr. Barnes will give you all the details you need to care for your child after their treatment.
Before & Afters
A smile is worth 1,000 words.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is sedation used in dentistry?
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Sedation in dentistry primarily serves to alleviate dental anxiety, which helps children remain calm and cooperative during their dental procedures. Many children experience fear or nervousness about dental visits, and sedation can significantly ease these feelings. It's also beneficial for managing discomfort during more involved procedures like tooth extractions, and it helps children who have difficulty staying still for extended periods during treatments.
Is sedation dentistry right for my child?
Pediatric sedation is generally appropriate for children who are in good health and do not have any significant medical conditions or medications that could negatively interact with the sedation. It's best to consult with us for a personalized assessment. During a consultation, we can discuss your child's specific needs and address any concerns to determine the best option.
What does sedation dentistry feel like for my child?
Every sedation option feels different. Laughing gas (nitrous oxide) typically makes children feel relaxed and slightly euphoric. They’ll be fully conscious but won’t experience discomfort.
Oral conscious sedation often results in a drowsy, sleepy state. Children might fall asleep and have little to no memory of the procedure but can still respond to instructions.
General anesthesia provides the deepest sedation. Your child will be completely unconscious and unable to feel or remember the procedure.
Is sedation dentistry safe for toddlers?
Sedation dentistry is safe for children of all ages, including toddlers when administered correctly. We ensure safety by conducting a thorough health history assessment and choosing the appropriate sedation method for each child. You’ll be fully informed about the chosen sedation technique, its effects, and aftercare requirements. All sedation procedures are carried out by qualified professionals on our team. At every step of the process, we prioritize your child's safety and comfort.
