Because children find it difficult to sit through a dental treatment, particularly one that involves discomfort, our downtown pediatric dental practice offers two options for a more comfortable experience: nitrous oxide and sedation. Beginning at the age of 2 years, parents can choose one of these two options for fillings, crowns, root canals, extractions or other treatments. Endorsed by the American Dental Association, sedation is an effective way to make children comfortable during a dental visit.
Often called “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide calms pediatric dental patients during procedures. Since they are still awake, children can talk to the dentist or parent during treatment, but are calm and relaxed. After treatment ends, oxygen is given for 5-10 minutes to flush out any remaining nitrous oxide, allowing almost immediate reversal of the effects of the gas. Nitrous oxide has been used for decades and is proven to be safe and effective.
I.V. Sedation is recommended for apprehensive children, very young children, and children with special needs that would not work well under conscious sedation. The dentist performs the dental treatment in our office with the child anesthetized under I.V. sedation, which is administered and monitored by an oral surgeon.
Please notify us of any change in your child’s health and/or medical condition. Do not bring your child for treatment with a fever, ear infection or cold. Should your child become ill, contact us to see if it is necessary to postpone the appointment.
You must tell the doctor of any drugs that your child is currently taking and any drug reactions and/or change in medical history.
Please dress your child in loose-fitting, comfortable clothing.
Please make sure that your child goes to the bathroom immediately prior to arriving at the office.
Your child should not have milk or solid food after midnight prior to the scheduled procedure and clear liquids ONLY (water, apple juice, Gatorade) for up to 6 hours prior to the appointment.
The child’s parent or legal guardian must remain at the office during the complete procedure.
Your child will be drowsy and will need to be monitored very closely. Keep your child away from areas of potential harm.
If your child wants to sleep, place them on their side with their chin up. Wake your child every hour and encourage them to have something to drink in order to prevent dehydration. At first it is best to give your child sips of clear liquids to prevent nausea. The first meal should be light and easily digestible.
If your child vomits, help them bend over and turn their head to the side to insure that they do not inhale the vomit.
Please call our office for any questions or concerns that you might have.