Sedation Dentistry

We recognize that some of our young patients may feel anxious or apprehensive about receiving dental care. Our doctors and staff work hard to make sure that your child has a comfortable, positive experience, and that's why we are pleased to offer sedation dentistry for those patients needing a little extra comfort before receiving treatment. Feeling anxious about receiving dental care should never prevent having a beautiful, healthy smile.

Customized sedation dentistry that is safe and effective

There are different types of sedation dentistry, and working together, you and your doctor will decide on a personalized treatment plan that will give your child the care he or she needs while ensuring comfort every step of the way.

• In some cases, your child will be given a small pill or a small amount of liquid to drink to help him or her relax about an hour before treatment begins. When you arrive at our practice, our staff will be waiting for you and will escort you and your child to a private treatment room.
• In other cases, the doctor will gently administer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and will carefully monitor the effects.
• For very young and fearful patients we offer the option of treatment under general anesthesia which allows all treatment (which could take up to 5-6 regular office visits) to be completed in one appointment with the patient having no memory of the treatment.

Common questions about sedation dentistry

We understand that before receiving treatment, you may have many questions about sedation dentistry. Here are some of the most common questions and answers about sedation dentistry.

• Will my child feel anything during treatment?

In most cases, patients do not feel anything. There is very little discomfort, and many patients wake up feeling relaxed and comfortable with almost no memory of the treatment.

• Is sedation dentistry the same as being unconscious?

No. Your child will still be conscious and responsive; however, he or she will be a deep state of relaxation.

• Is sedation dentistry safe?

Sedation dentistry is a safe and effective way for many patients to receive dental treatment. Before starting treatment, the doctor will talk with you and help you decide if conscious sedation is right for your child's treatment.

• How long will it take the sedation to wear off?

The time it takes for the sedatives to wear off depends on the dose received, how long the treatment is, and how quickly your child's body can recover.

• Is my child a good candidate for sedation dentistry?

  Any patients who experience dental anxiety are good candidates for sedation dentistry. If your child has any of the following fears or concerns, ask your doctor about sedation dentistry as an option for their next dental treatment:

  • Extreme dental anxiety or fear of visiting the dentist
  • Fear of needles and/or shots
  • Have had a traumatic dental experience in the past
  • Can't handle the smells or noises of being at a dentist's office
  • Have overly sensitive teeth, a strong gag reflex, or trouble getting numb
  • Require a more complex dental treatment
  • Feel self-conscious about teeth
  • Wish to have a more comfortable dental treatment

If you feel that your child could benefit from sedation dentistry, please contact us and let us know how we can better accommodate your family's needs.

Nitrous Oxide

Some children are given nitrous oxide/oxygen, or what you may know as laughing gas, to relax them for their dental treatment. Nitrous oxide/oxygen is a blend of two gases, oxygen and nitrous oxide. Nitrous oxide/oxygen is given through a small breathing mask which is placed over the child's nose, allowing them to relax, but without putting them to sleep. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, recognizes this technique as a very safe, effective technique to use for treating children's dental needs. The gas is mild, easily taken, then with normal breathing, it is quickly eliminated from the body. It is non-addictive. While inhaling nitrous oxide/oxygen, your child remains fully conscious and keeps all natural reflexes.

Prior to your appointment:

• Please inform us of any change to your child's health and/or medical condition.
• Tell us about any respiratory condition that makes breathing through the nose difficult for your child. It may limit the effectiveness of the nitrous oxide/oxygen.
• Let us know if your child is taking any medication on the day of the appointment. This includes prescribed, over-the-counter, or herbal medications.

Conscious Sedation

Conscious Sedation is recommended for apprehensive children, very young children, and children with special needs. It is used to calm your child and to reduce the anxiety or discomfort associated with dental treatments. Your child may be quite drowsy, and may even fall asleep, but they will not become unconscious.

There are a variety of different medications, which can be used for conscious sedation. The doctor will prescribe the medication best suited for your child's overall health and dental treatment recommendations. We will be happy to answer any questions you might have concerning the specific drugs we plan to give to your child.

Prior to your appointment:

• 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 (prescribed, over-the-counter, or herbal medications) 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 solid food for at least 6 hours prior to their sedation appointment and only clear liquids for up to 4 hours before the appointment.
• The child's parent or legal guardian must remain at the office during the complete procedure.
• Please watch your child closely while the medication is taking effect. Hold them in your lap or keep close to you. Do not let them "run around."
• Your child will act drowsy and may become slightly excited at first.

After the sedation appointment:

• 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.
• Because we use local anesthetic to numb your child's mouth during the procedure, your child may have the tendency to bite or chew their lips, cheeks, and/or tongue and/or rub and scratch their face after treatment. Please observe your child carefully to prevent any injury to these areas.
• Please call our office for any questions or concerns that you might have.

Outpatient General Anesthesia

Dr. Martin feels that if the patient needs this type of treatment then he/she should be placed in a hospital setting for their safety.? Therefore, this service is not offered in our office.? However, Dr. Martin will be willing to refer the patient if need be.