Dental Sedation for Your Child
We understand that not all children react the same way when visiting the dentist. Our goal is to help decrease dental anxiety and to help your child feel more comfortable at their visit. We offer several types of sedation and have the training, expertise, and equipment needed to keep your children safe while maximizing their comfort. Most children are able to receive treatment with laughing gas alone and do not need deeper sedation. We will discuss various treatment options for your child during their consultation appointment, and based on their specific needs.
Is Sedation Safe for Children?
In a short answer… yes.
The risk of adverse events during sedation is exceptionally low. Patient safety is always our utmost priority, and we do everything we can to minimize the risks associated with sedation. We will discuss all options and safety measures during your child's consultation appointment.
Sedation Options We Offer
Laughing Gas (Nitrous Oxide)
Laughing gas (nitrous oxide) is commonly used in dentistry. It is a very safe and effective way to reduce pain and anxiety during your child's dental treatment. We find that most children are able to tolerate treatment with laughing gas and distraction. To help with distraction, we have TVs mounted on the ceiling playing a selection of kid-friendly movies and shows. With laughing gas, your child will remain awake throughout the appointment, and it will be administered in conjunction with oxygen through a nasal hood. At the end of the appointment, your child will be switched to 100% oxygen, and recovery will take only a few minutes. The best part? Your child can resume normal activities right after their appointment is over.
Sleep Dentistry
For children who are very young, have severe dental anxiety, or require extensive dental treatment beyond their level of cooperation, sleep dentistry may be the best option. We are fully equipped to provide dentistry under deep sedation both within our office and at Mat-Su Regional Medical Center. We work with highly trained anesthesiologists that administer and monitor the sedation medications, while we focus on the dental treatment.