Nitrous Oxide (N20): (Also known as “laughing gas”)
Nitrous oxide is a blend of two gases; oxygen and nitrous oxide. It is a safe, mild, non-allergenic sedation. Quick acting, nitrous oxide is administered through a “nose” that fits over your child’s nose and functions as they breathe normally. They are fully awake while breathing the nitrous oxide. At the end of treatment, we have your child breathe 100% oxygen, and the gases are out of their system before they leave our office.
Oral Conscious Sedation: (Also referred to as “Pre-med”)
We also offer oral conscious sedation, which is a blend of medications given to your child based on their weight, approximately 40 minutes before beginning treatment. Your child doesn’t eat or drink anything after midnight the night before treatment, then after treatment, it is a relaxing day at home with no outdoor activities or returning to school. This option allows your child to relax during treatment, yet still remain awake. As with all treatment options, it is very important to follow the pre and post treatment instructions given to you by the dentist and treatment coordinator.
General Anesthesia (I.V. Sedation)
When oral conscious sedation would not work well, we may recommend general anesthesia, also known as I.V. Sedation. This is an option if your child is extremely apprehensive, very young, or has special needs. It is administered in our office by a trained general anesthesiologist that comes to our office approximately once a month, specifically to do I.V. sedation. Your child is constantly monitored by the anesthesiologist, as well as a trained dental assistant, and the dentist performing the treatment. Similar to oral sedation, your child doesn’t eat or drink anything after midnight the night before treatment, then after treatment, it is a relaxing day at home. It’s important to follow the pre and post treatment instructions given to you by the dentist and treatment coordinator.