Pediatric Sedation Dentistry (Sleep Dentistry)
in Sacramento, CA
Sedation Dentistry at Bubbles Dental
Picture your child undergoing intricate dental procedures such as a root canal, extraction, or oral surgery. Once the treatment is finished, your child won't remember the duration, discomfort, noise, or pain. We're delighted to provide your child with the choice of comfortable, safe, and efficient sedation dentistry in Sacramento, CA. Our pediatric dental patients who opt for sedation dentistry experience:
- Fear or anxiety about dental visits
- Difficulty sitting still for extended periods
- Challenges with getting (and remaining) numb from anesthetics
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry enables your pediatric dentist to administer various dental treatments safely and comfortably for children who feel anxious about dental visits. There are several advantages to sedation dentistry, including:
- Zero recollection of the procedure
- Lack of awareness of time during sedation
- Elimination of smell or sound perception
- Complete absence of fear or anxiety throughout treatment
Different Levels of Sedation
Sedation dentistry is carefully regulated by law, and it encompasses three sedative states at which your child's dentist can administer treatment: mild sedation, moderate sedation, and deep sedation.
- Mild Sedation: Anxiolysis, the lightest form of sedation dentistry, is commonly employed for children with mild anxiety, lengthier procedures, or more complex situations. Mild sedation is typically administered orally. Your child will remain awake or very drowsy throughout the procedure and will be able to breathe normally, experiencing a profound sense of relaxation. Patients usually recover from anxiolysis sedation within a few hours after the procedure. Nitrous oxide inhalation (laughing gas) is another form of mild to moderate sedation that induces relaxation during treatment.
- Moderate Sedation: This level is utilized for patients with moderate dental anxiety and those requiring lengthier or more intricate procedures. Conscious sedation often involves the use of light IV sedation. During conscious sedation, your child remains awake throughout the procedure but is in a deep state of relaxation.
- Deep Sedation: Patients undergoing deep sedation fluctuate between consciousness and unconsciousness during their dental procedure. They often have no memory of the treatment and may be unable to respond to commands, even if they are awake at times during the procedure.
People of all ages, including children, can benefit from sedation dentistry. However, people with certain medical conditions or sensitivities to anesthesia may not be eligible for this type of treatment. It’s always best to talk to your dental practitioner about whether sedation dentistry is an appropriate and safe option for you.
How Sedatives Are Administered
- Inhalation: Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is the preferred method for alleviating mild to moderate anxiety. Recovery is swift, allowing your child to resume normal activities promptly.
- Oral: Oral sedation is a widely used technique for dental sedation. It is convenient and needle-free. Your child will receive a prescription pill to take about an hour before the appointment, ensuring full relaxation by the time you arrive at our office.
Feel free to reach out to our practice to arrange a consultation, discover more about sedation dentistry in Sacramento, CA, and determine which sedation dentistry method could be suitable for your child.
