What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses medications to help patients relax while undergoing dental procedures. It can be a helpful way to increase the patient's cooperation and also reduce anxiety or discomfort associated with dental procedures. There are different types of sedation available for kids in today's time.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous Oxide, which is also known as laughing gas, is an effective and safe sedative agent that is usually mixed with oxygen and inhaled with the help of a small mask. The small mask fits over the nose and is usually scented. We provide a variety of scented noses - bubble gum, cherry, orange, and grape.
Nitrous oxide is the least potent sedative used in the field of pediatric dentistry. It is intended to make the patient feel relaxed rather than to put them to sleep. Nitrous oxide is helpful for a wide range of conditions, including anxiety reduction, prevention of unfavorable dental treatment reactions, increased tolerance for lengthier dental procedures, controlling the gag reflex, etc. It also helps in the dental treatment of an individual with special health care requirements.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral conscious sedation or "oral sedation" can help reduce the anxiety or discomfort associated with a dental procedure when nitrous oxide sedation cannot get the job done. A child is given a liquid medication which the dental professionals choose based on his/her level of anxiety, overall health, and the dental treatments recommended. Most kids feel drowsy or go into a light sleep after the dosage, from which they can easily be aroused.
Unlike general anesthesia, oral sedation is not intended to make a patient unresponsive or unconscious. Some children may not feel relaxed but have an opposite reaction, such as crying or agitation. These are some of the common responses to the medications that can ultimately stop us from completing dental procedures. Our highly trained staff will observe your kid's response to the medication and provide the needed care in any case.
General Anesthesia
Young kids with high anxiety levels, special health care needs, or extensive dental decay can be recommended to undergo dental treatment under the influence of general anesthesia.
Your child will be completely unconscious after receiving a general anesthetic. This would be similar if he/she were having their tonsils removed, ear tubes placed, or hernia treated. All necessary dental procedure is carried out in a comfortable environment, preventing the development of a persistent phobia of dentists and dental care. Once all of the concerns are addressed, healthy dietary and home care instructions will be provided by us, which will ultimately help your child to follow healthy dental habits.
Our dental office provides general anesthesia in-office or in a hospital setup
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