Safe, comfortable & effective dental treatment and dental surgeries under IV deep sedation with a board-certified anesthesiologist
We recognize that some of our 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 your child from having the beautiful, healthy smile.
Customized sedation dentistry that is safe and effective
There are different types of sedation dentistry, and you and your doctor will work together to decide on a personalized treatment plan that will give your child the care they need while ensuring their comfort every step of the way.
How sedation dentistry works
About 5 minutes before we begin your dental treatment, your child will be given a small injection of mild sedative in his/her deltoid area (similar to getting a flu shot). Shortly after, we will start monitoring your child's vitals.
Our anesthesiologist will then gently place an IV and administer medication to help your child into a deeper state of relaxation. Once his/her treatment is complete, he/she will wake up with little or no memory of the appointment and a beautiful new smile. Using sedation dentistry, we may be able to complete many different procedures, including complex rehabilitation of his/her oral health, in just one office visit.
Common questions about sedation dentistry
We understand that you may have many questions about sedation dentistry before receiving treatment. Here are some of the most common questions and answers about sedation dentistry:
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Will My Child feel anything during my 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.
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Is sedation dentistry the same as being unconscious?
No. Your child will still be conscious and responsive but you will be in a deep state of relaxation.
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Is sedation dentistry safe?
Sedation dentistry is a safe and effective way for many patients to receive dental treatment. Before starting your treatment with IV sedation, your doctor will help you decide if IV sedation is right for your child's treatment.
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How long will it take the sedation to wear off?
The time it takes for the sedatives to wear off depends on the dose your child received, how long your treatment is, and how quickly their body can recover.
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Is my child a good candidate for sedation dentistry?
Any patient who experiences dental anxiety is a good candidate for sedation dentistry. If your child have 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
- Past traumatic dental experience
- Inability to handle the smells or noises at a dentist's office
- Overly sensitive teeth, a strong gag reflex, or trouble getting numb
- Need for a more complex dental treatment
- Self-consciousness about one's teeth
- Desire for a more comfortable dental treatment
If you feel that your child could benefit from sedation dentistry at their next appointment, please contact us and let us know how we can better accommodate your needs.