Pediatric dental offices are specially trained in creating a welcoming and secure atmosphere for anxious children. We have many techniques which allow us to transform nervous patients into having positive experiences at the dental office. We commonly use a technique called tell-show-do where we explain the procedure, demonstrate on the child’s hand and then are able to perform the procedure on children. We allow parents in the operatory but sometimes treatment can be enhanced if parents step out of the room. All of our pediatric dentists make individualized treatment plans for each child.
Sedation dentistry refers to the use of sedation during dental treatment. Sedation is most commonly used during extensive procedures, for patients with dental phobia or for patients who find it difficult to sit still. There are different types of sedation, including nitrous oxide ("laughing gas"), oral sedatives, IV sedation, and general anesthetic.
Sedation can range from the use of nitrous oxide to calm a patient to general anesthetics used to put patients to sleep. Patients with dental phobia, low pain tolerance, major dental treatment, physical handicaps or strong gag reflexes may require sedation.
Sedation is endorsed by the American Dental Association and is an effective way to make many patients comfortable during their dental visit. Before using a sedative or anesthetic, it is important to tell your dentist about any medications or medical treatments you are receiving. Before administering any sedative or anesthetic, your dentist will talk to you about the process of sedation and pre-and post-sedation instructions.
At Chestnut Dental Associates we provide Nitrous Oxide Sedation.
Nitrous Oxide ("Laughing Gas”)
Nitrous oxide or more commonly known as laughing gas, since it may produce a feeling of giddiness or euphoria, is often used as a conscious sedative during a dental visit. Nitrous oxide is very safe and has been used for over 100 years in medicine and dentistry. The gas is administered via a fitted mask placed over the nose. The nitrous oxide is mixed with oxygen and has a calming effect that helps phobic or anxious patients relax during their dental treatment. It also works well in children with a gag reflex. Because it is a mild sedative, patients are still conscious and can talk to their dentist during their visit. Nitrous oxide raises the pain threshold and may even make the time appear to pass quickly. After treatment, the nitrous is turned off and oxygen is administered to help flush out any remaining gas. The effects wear off almost immediately. Nitrous oxide rarely has side effects, although some patients may experience minor nausea and constipation. Your doctor will provide you with pre-and post-sedation instructions.