Most pediatric dental procedures can be completed with local anesthesia, with or without laughing gas. However, very young, highly anxious, or non-cooperative children—and patients with special health care needs or extensive treatment needs—may require sedation to safely complete high-quality dentistry. Sedation supports your child’s safety and comfort and helps protect their developing psyche so dental fear doesn’t form during early experiences.
When We Recommend Sedation
- Very young children who cannot tolerate conventional treatment
- Severe anxiety or strong gag reflex
- Special health care needs
- Extensive dental work needed in fewer visits
Who Provides the Anesthesia?
We partner with Pediatric Dental Anesthesia Associates (PDAA). Their doctors are pediatric anesthesiologists—medical doctors who complete 4 years of college, 4 years of medical school, and 4–5 years of anesthesiology training, including specialty training in pediatrics (infants and children)—typically totaling 12,000+ hours of clinical training. With highly trained anesthesiologists managing sedation, your child receives safe, monitored care throughout the procedure.
What to Expect on Treatment Day
- Pre-visit instructions: Fasting guidelines and medication review.
- Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and breathing.
- Comfort-first approach: Local anesthesia for pain control plus appropriately titrated sedation.
- Recovery: Post-op observation until your child meets safe discharge criteria.
FAQs
Is IV sedation safe for children?
When administered and monitored by trained pediatric anesthesiologists, IV sedation is considered safe. We follow strict protocols, review medical histories, and monitor your child continuously from start to finish.
Will my child feel pain during treatment?
Sedation is combined with local anesthesia to keep your child comfortable. Most children remember little, if anything, about the procedure.
How should we prepare for the appointment?
We’ll provide specific fasting and medication instructions in advance. Please inform us of recent illnesses or changes in health before the visit.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery varies by child and procedure length, but most children are ready to go home after a short observation period. Plan a quiet day of rest and follow all aftercare instructions.