Sedation Dentistry
Imagine your child undergoing a complex dental treatment like a pulpotamy, extraction, or a crown. We are pleased to offer your child the option of comfortable, safe, and effective sedation dentistry. Our pediatric dental patients who benefit from sedation dentistry have:
- A fear or anxiety of being at the dentist
- A hard time sitting still for long periods of time
- A hard time getting (and staying) numb from anesthetics
- Have greater intellectual needs
What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry allows your pediatric dentist to provide a variety of dental treatments safely and comfortably for children who experience anxiety when visiting the dentist. There are several benefits to sedation dentistry, including:
- No fear or anxiety during treatment
- Ability to tolerate longer appointments
- Dulling of the senses
Levels of Sedation
Sedation dentistry is closely regulated by law, and as per Massachusetts we use two: Conscious Moderate Sedation and General Anesthesia.
- Moderate Sedation — We offer a multitude of options, including nitrous oxide and premedication. Most treatments we perform include use of nitrous oxide, but a premedication may be used for more intense anxieties, unability to remain seated for prolonged amounts of time, or intellectual needs.
- General Anesthesia — Patients receiving general anesthesia will be completely unconscious. See IV sedation page.
How are sedatives administered?
- Inhalation — Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is the most frequently used method for easing mild to moderate anxiety. Recovery is quick so your child can resume normal activities immediately.
- Oral or Premedication— An extremely common technique for dental sedation is oral sedation. It is easy and does not require the use of needles. Your child will be given an oral medication in addition to the nitrous oxide.
Please contact our practice to schedule a consultation, learn more about sedation dentistry, and find out which sedation dentistry method may be right for your child.