When it comes to medical procedures, young children may become very anxious. Whether you are taking your child for dental services or a routine check-up, their safety is a top concern. For dental services, if your child becomes very anxious, your pediatric dental care team may suggest children’s sedation dentistry. This procedure will help reduce the stress that your child may be feeling. Using a mild sedative, your child’s dentist will provide the dental care needed.

Children’s Sedation Options

  • Nitrous Oxide- This type of sedation is also known as laughing gas. A mask is placed over your child’s nose and your child must be calm enough to breathe through their nose. Your child will be in a relaxed state within five minutes. The mask will stay on during the procedure to give pure oxygen and clear out the nitrous oxide. It is a useful method for older children with minimal anxiety.
  • Conscious Sedation- This type of sedation is also known as oral sedation. It is taken by mouth using different medications and amounts depending on the amount of sedation needed and the child’s weight. Your child will begin to feel relaxed within 20 minutes of taking the medication.
  • Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC)- For children who are young and most anxious, an IV will be placed in the arm or hand to allow for direct access to medication into the bloodstream. The dentist can give your child more medicine if the procedure is going to take longer to ensure your child is relaxed.
  • General Anesthesia (GA)- While rare, sometimes dental treatment in a hospital operating room is needed and will require general anesthesia. This will allow your child to slip into deeper relaxation. This type of children’s sedation is avoided unless it is medically necessary.

Contact Our Children’s Dentistry Team

If your child is in need of sedation dentistry throughout the Greenwich, Stamford, or Darien, CT areas, rely on the team at Around The World Pediatric Dentistry. We strive to make your child’s dental experience a happy, healthy, and safe one. Our team has the knowledge and experience to help you and your child with a variety of pediatric dental care services. Depending on the nature of your child and the scope of the procedure, we will make the best recommendations on the sedation needed. Contact our office today for more information or to set up services.