Sedation Options
Every child is unique – some feel instantly at ease, while others benefit from extra support to deliver safe and quality care. We understand that it can be very stressful for parents if your child has difficulty coping with dental treatment. If sedation could help your child have a positive experience, we’ll explore the safest and most appropriate options during your consultation.
Laughing
Gas
Laughing gas (nitrous oxide) is a safe, mild sedative that creates feelings of happiness and relaxation. At Sprout, laughing gas is given by a mask that sits gently on your child’s nose and starts working quickly. Laughing gas causes pleasant, tingly sensations in their fingers and toes. Rarely, tingling can be felt around the tummy that can trigger nausea and vomiting, especially on a very full stomach. When they’re done, the flow of laughing gas is replaced with oxygen and the effect disappears quickly – allowing kids to go back to school the same day! If your child has a sensitive stomach, set them up for success with a light meal two hours prior to their appointment.
Oral
Sedation
Oral sedation can prove very helpful for relaxing young children to help them succeed with longer or more complex treatment visits. At Sprout, we offer oral sedation in a drinkable form, mixed with your child’s favorite flavor. Children remain awake and alert but in many cases do not remember the procedure due to the amnesia effect of the medication. Dr. Schmidt considers multiple factors including your child’s ability to cooperate and required amount of treatment to tailor the best approach for your child. To maximize safety, children need an empty tummy for these visits and fasting is a standard safety protocol. Dr. Schmidt and her skilled team follow strict monitoring guidelines to ensure a safe sedation experience.
General
Anesthesia
For some children needing significant dental treatment, the safest way to accomplish treatment is under general anesthesia. This is what people describe as “being put to sleep”. Under general anesthesia, children are completely asleep and have no pain or memory of the procedure. To ensure safe treatment, children must be feeling well and have strictly followed our fasting guidelines. We work with highly skilled anesthesiologists focused on the safety and wellbeing of your child. Dentistry asleep achieves the goal of avoiding difficult dental experiences that can contribute to a lifetime of dental fear!
Grow With Us
We’re here for kids of all ages and abilities. Start your child’s oral health journey at Sprout!
