Sedation Dentistry

Sedation Dentistry: Stress-Free Visits for Kids and Families

​

Dental anxiety is incredibly common—even among children. In fact, many people avoid dental care altogether due to fear or past negative experiences. That’s where sedation dentistry comes in. It offers a safe, effective way to help patients—especially young or anxious ones—feel calm, relaxed, and comfortable during dental visits.

​

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Contrary to common belief, most dental sedatives do not put patients fully to sleep. Instead, they help reduce anxiety and create a sense of calm while the patient remains awake and responsive. Some forms of sedation may cause drowsiness or memory loss of the procedure, which can be helpful for easing fear and discomfort.

​

Sedation dentistry is especially useful for:

• Children with dental anxiety or fear

• Patients with a strong gag reflex

• Those requiring multiple or complex treatments

• Children with special healthcare needs

​

Best part of sedation dentistry - no needles involved! However, for stronger sedation like IV sedation, a direct injection is used, and effects are felt immediately. A caregiver must accompany the child, especially if IV sedation is used, as they may feel drowsy afterward.

​

Types of Sedation We Offer

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
A mild and widely used sedative for children. It’s inhaled through a small nose mask and works quickly to help kids feel relaxed and comfortable during treatment. Nitrous oxide also reduces pain and suppresses the gag reflex, all while allowing your child to stay awake. Its effects wear off quickly, so most children can return to normal activities shortly after their appointment.

​

IV Sedation
Used for more complex or lengthy procedures, IV sedation delivers medication directly into the bloodstream for immediate results. Children often feel like they "slept through" the entire visit. Because of its stronger effects, this type of sedation requires close monitoring and post-treatment care by a responsible adult.

​

Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

• Eases anxiety and fear

• Minimizes discomfort and pain

• No memory of the procedure in many cases

• Fewer visits needed—more work can be done at once

• No needles for most forms of sedation

• Safe, effective, and tailored to your child’s needs

​

Before any sedation is administered, our dentists carefully review your child’s medical history and medications to choose the safest and most effective option.

​

If you have questions about sedation dentistry or whether it’s right for your child, we’re here to help guide you every step of the way.