Sedation

Sedation in Dentistry

Some children may benefit from sedation during dental treatment. This can be especially helpful for very young children, children with significant anxiety, or children with special needs who may have difficulty sitting comfortably through treatment.

Nitrous oxide/oxygen sedation, often called laughing gas, is a gentle option for children who are mildly or moderately anxious. It is given through a small nose mask using a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen. Children typically remain awake, relaxed, and responsive throughout treatment.

Deep sedation or general anesthesia may be recommended in some cases for children who are not yet able, because of age, developmental stage, or other needs, to safely cooperate during treatment. If this is appropriate for your child, we will discuss it carefully with you in advance so that together we can choose the safest and most beneficial approach. Sedation may be helpful for:

• children who need extensive treatment
• very anxious children
• children who have had difficult or traumatic dental experiences
• children with a strong gag reflex
• children with complex medical or special needs