Sedation Dentistry

Dental Sedation

Dental sedation can be a useful tool for helping children feel more comfortable during dental procedures. There are several types of pediatric dental sedation available, each with its own benefits and risks. Anytime we utilize additional medications, there are always additional considerations. In this blog post, we'll discuss the different types of pediatric dental sedation and what you should know about each one.

Nitrous Oxide (Anxiolysis or Minimal Sedation)

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a mild sedative that is inhaled through a mask placed over the nose. It is a safe and effective option for children who are anxious or fearful about dental procedures. Nitrous oxide sedation can help children feel more relaxed and calm during dental procedures, but they remain awake and alert throughout the procedure. Dr. Dan always says that it is not a "night and day" medication where you are likely to notice your child act completetly different, it merely "takes the edge off" and increases comfort.

Oral Conscious Sedation (Moderate Sedation)

Oral sedation involves taking a liquid medication by mouth to help children feel more relaxed and calm during dental procedures. It is used in conjunction with laughing gas, adding one more level to achieve your child's comfort. The effect and or success is dependent on the dose given and how it affects your unique child. Children who receive oral sedation may become drowsy or fall asleep during the procedure. They can still be easily awakened and are likely to remember the appointment. At Campfire Smile Pediatric Dentistry, we do not offer moderate sedation. Although Dr. Dan has his license to perform such sedation and has done it for years in the past, it is not something that he wants to offer at the office because he feels other modalities are much safer and more effective/predictable.

General Anesthesia (Complete Sedation)

General anesthesia is the deepest form of sedation and is typically reserved for children who require extensive dental work or who have special needs. General anesthesia puts children into a state of unconsciousness. Your child would only experience a mask over their mouth and nose. The IV is placed after they are already asleep and they will not remember the procedure afterward. They wake up to a popsicle! It is administered by an anesthesiologist in a hospital, surgical center or even in the office. At Campfire Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we can see your child at the Children's Hospital of Colorado, St. Francis Hospital or in the office with an anesthesiologist.

Conclusion

If your child is unable to tolerate dental treatment regularly, there are many options to choose from. With advancements in medications, modalities and training, pediatric dentists have moved beyond restraining children for dental treatment. It is our goal at Campfire Smiles Pediatric Dentistry for our patients to grow up and not avoid dental care because of a traumatic childhood dental experience.

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