Sedation Dentistry

Sedation Dentistry for Kids Near You!

We offer laughing gas (nitrous oxide), at no additional cost, to patients who feel just a little anxious. Some children may require medicine to help them relax even more. Suppose a child can not tolerate the treatment at all due to young age, extensive cavities, or medical conditions. In that case, we will have an anesthesiologist to put the child to sleep so they can be treated in a safe, comfortable environment. Not all patients are good candidates for oral sedation or general anesthesia; we need to evaluate medical conditions carefully before we approve oral sedation or general anesthesia. All of our staff, including patient coordinators and dental assistants, are CPR-certified. All of our doctors are certified by PALS (Pediatric Advance Life Support).

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry helps children feel calm, relaxed, and comfortable during dental procedures. It's beneficial for kids with high anxiety, special healthcare needs, strong gag reflexes, or when extensive dental work is required. Several safe and effective sedation options are used in pediatric dentistry, including laughing gas, oral sedation, and general anesthesia.

Laughing Gas
(Nitrous Oxide)

Laughing gas is the mildest and most commonly used form of sedation in children. It is a colorless, sweet-smelling gas inhaled through a small mask placed over the nose. Laughing gas helps kids feel relaxed and slightly light-headed, but they remain awake and responsive throughout the procedure. The effects wear off quickly, allowing children to return to normal activities the same day. It's safe, non-invasive, and ideal for routine procedures or mildly anxious children.

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation involves giving the child a prescribed liquid or pill medication before the procedure. This type of sedation makes the child drowsy and calm, though they usually remain conscious. It's stronger than laughing gas and is suitable for children with moderate anxiety or those undergoing longer treatments. The dental team closely monitors the child's vital signs throughout the appointment. After oral sedation in Redmond, the child may feel sleepy for several hours and should rest at home.

General Anesthesia

General anesthesia is used for more complex dental procedures or for children who are unable to tolerate treatment while awake. It puts the child into a deep sleep and is administered by a trained anesthesiologist, often in a hospital or specialized facility. This method is typically reserved for very young children, patients with special needs, or those requiring extensive dental work. After the procedure, the child needs time to recover and must be monitored closely.

Choosing the Right Sedation Method

The choice of sedation depends on the child's age, health, level of anxiety, and the type of dental treatment needed. Pediatric dentists will assess each child individually and discuss the safest, most appropriate option with parents.

Laughing Gas, Oral Sedation, and General Anesthesia at Bel-Red Pediatric Dentistry

Sedation dentistry makes dental visits less stressful and more manageable for children. When administered properly, options like laughing gas, oral sedation, and general anesthesia near you in Redmond are safe and effective tools for ensuring a positive and comfortable dental experience.

Sedation Dentistry in
Redmond, WA