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Sedation Options for Pediatric Patients

At Parish Pediatric Dental, we understand that dental visits can be an anxious experience for children and parents alike. To ensure your child’s comfort and make their dental care as stress-free as possible, we offer a range of sedation options tailored to their needs. Whether it’s a mild sedative to help them relax or more comprehensive sedation for complex procedures, our goal is to provide a safe and positive experience. Explore our sedation options below to learn how we can make your child’s visit comfortable and pleasant.

nitrous oxide

A mild sedative that helps your child relax and feel comfortable. It is administered through a small mask that fits over the nose. Nitrous oxide wears off quickly, allowing your child to resume normal activities shortly after the procedure.

oral sedation

Before the treatment, medication is given as a liquid to help your child feel calm and relaxed at the clinic. The effects of oral sedation can last a few hours, and we monitor your child closely throughout the procedure.

general anesthesia

This option is ideal for children with anxiety or special needs, or those with extensive treatment needs It allows them to sleep comfortably and pain-free during procedures. Our dentists provide this service at a local surgery center or hospital, ensuring a safe environment for your child's care, with a trained medical anesthesia team monitoring their safety throughout the procedure.

frequently asked

questions

  • The choice of sedation depends on various factors, including your child’s age, the type of procedure, and their level of anxiety or discomfort and their medical history. Our pediatric dentists will discuss the options with you, considering your child’s needs and preferences, to determine the most appropriate method.

  • While sedation is generally safe when administered by trained professionals, it’s important to understand that all medical procedures come with some level of risk. At Parish Pediatric Dental, we carefully evaluate each child’s medical history and overall health before recommending sedation to ensure it's the right choice. During the procedure, our team closely monitors your child’s vital signs and comfort to prioritize their safety.

  • Preparation depends on the type of sedation used. No special preparation is usually needed for nitrous oxide. We may provide specific instructions for oral sedation, such as fasting before the appointment. Always follow the instructions provided to ensure the best outcome.

  • After the procedure, your child may feel groggy or drowsy, especially with oral sedation. It’s important to monitor them as they recover and ensure they get plenty of rest. We will provide you with post-care instructions and advise you on when it’s safe for your child to resume normal activities.

  • The effects of sedation vary depending on the method used. Nitrous oxide typically has minimal impact, while oral sedation may require some downtime. We’ll give you specific instructions on what to expect and how to care for your child during their recovery.

  • Yes, we encourage parents to be present during the initial stages of the sedation process to provide comfort and reassurance. For more advanced sedation methods, we may ask you to wait in a designated area while we monitor your child.

  • Please contact our office to schedule a consultation. Our team will happily answer any questions and arrange a time for you to meet with our pediatric dentist to discuss sedation options and address any concerns.

  • At Parish Pediatric Dental, we recognize that some children may require more than mild sedation to undergo dental procedures comfortably. Our doctors have general anesthesia privileges at local surgery centers and hospitals, allowing us to provide this option in a safe, controlled environment. General anesthesia is typically recommended for children who experience significant anxiety, have special healthcare needs, or need extensive dental work. By offering this level of care, we ensure your child’s treatment is both effective and stress-free, with close monitoring by experienced medical professionals throughout the process.

questions?

If you have more questions about our sedation options or want to learn which option is best for your child, we're here to help! Our friendly team at Parish Pediatric Dental is ready to answer any questions and provide the information you need to make an informed decision about your child's dental care. Call us today to discuss our sedation options and ensure a comfortable, stress-free experience for your little one.

Scheduling an appointment at Parish Pediatric Dental is easy and convenient! Our dedicated team is here to ensure your child’s smile stays healthy and bright. Whether it’s a routine check-up, preventive care, or a dental emergency, we’re committed to providing top-notch care in a warm, welcoming environment.

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