Sedation Dentistry

What is sedation dentistry?

While all dental procedures that require “numbing” will use local anesthetic, there are 3 additional levels of anesthesia that can help your child relax through their appointment; nitrous oxide, in-office sedation, or general anesthesia.

Laughing Gas/Nitrous

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is most often used for children who are mildly or moderately anxious or nervous. It eases their fears so that they can relax and receive treatment comfortably and safely. Nitrous oxide is administered by placing a small mask over your child’s nose. Your child will be asked to breathe through his or her nose and not through their mouth. As the gas begins to work, the child becomes calm, although he or she is still awake and can talk with the dentist. When the gas is turned off, the effects of sedation wear off almost immediately. As the child gets older and becomes more comfortable with the dentist, nitrous oxide may not be needed.

In-office sedation

Children who are more anxious may need an oral medication that is stronger than nitrous oxide. Several medications have a significant calming effect. When choosing a medication, the dentist will consider your child’s anxiety level, his or her ability to cooperate and the treatment required.

With oral sedation, your child may be sleepy but can be aroused if necessary and can respond to simple commands. Minor side effects such as nausea or vomiting can occur with some medications.

Before a visit in which your child is to receive oral sedation, you should receive instructions about eating and drinking, what to expect and what to watch for after treatment. You may need to carry your child home after sedation. You may need to stay for a short time after dental treatment has been completed so your child can be observed for full recovery and possible complications.

General Anesthesia

Sometimes it’s necessary for a child to be completely sedated in order to have the required dental treatment completed safely. General anesthesia puts a child into a deep sleep. He or she is unable to feel pain or to move around. This is the same kind of sleep a child would have if he or she were to have ear tubes placed or tonsils removed. Your dentist may recommend general anesthesia if your child:

• Can’t relax or calm down enough for treatment to be performed safely, even with conscious sedation and other behavior management techniques.

• Needs oral surgery or other dental treatment that would be difficult for the child to tolerate while awake.

• Needs a lot of dental work that can best be done in one long appointment rather than many shorter appointments.

• Has a medical, physical or emotional disability that limits his or her ability to understand directions and be treated safely in an outpatient setting.

General anesthesia for dental procedures is provided by an anesthesiologist. These professionals are trained to deliver the medications and monitor the child during the procedure and handle any complications that may occur.

A physical examination before receiving general anesthesia is required to ensure your child doesn’t have any conditions that could interfere with or be affected by the anesthesia. If your child is sick on the day of the scheduled procedure, call to see if the appointment should be rescheduled.