Sedation/Hospital Dentistry

Children who are very young or who have a high level of anxiety that interferes with the cooperation necessary for the dentist to perform treatment may require some level of sedation. Sedation is also helpful for special needs children. There are many safe and effective methods available today that can help relax the child and promote a good environment for optimal and safe dental treatment.

Nitrous Oxide or “laughing gas,” although not truly a sedative, acts to gently relax the child and is the most effective method to assist the mildly anxious patient. It involves breathing through a nosepiece and helps place the patient in a more relaxed state. The patient is fully aware of their surroundings and remains conscious throughout the procedure. The child will always be breathing at least 50% oxygen and at the completion of dental treatment, the patient is given 100% oxygen, which flushes the body of nitrous oxide and its side effects.

Mild sedation is used to assist the younger patient or more apprehensive child. The effect of these oral medications is to quiet and calm the child without putting them to sleep. The aware child may fall asleep during the procedure but can be aroused and is capable of following directions when asked.

Heavy sedation is not appropriate in the dental office environment.

General anesthesia is sometimes necessary for children that are unable, by either age or maturity level, to cooperate during dental treatment. This level of patient management may be provided in our office or in a hospital setting.

• In Office General Sedation: Our practice utilizes a specially trained anesthesiologist for cases where the patient may pose a threat to their own safety and the safety of the doctor during treatment. This option will be discussed with the parents/guardians of the patient before treatment to ensure the optimum beneficial outcome. The anesthesiologist will attend the child’s dental appointment at our office to administer the general anesthetic while the doctor completes your child’s treatment needs.
• Hospital Dentistry: For those patients whose medical history dictates treatment in a hospital setting our doctors are on staff locally at Children’s Hospital of San Diego. Our doctors will thoroughly review your child’s medical history and treatment needs to asses the most appropriate setting for their dental care.

Sedation Dentistry is most helpful for:

• Infants
• Children who are pre-cooperative or pre-communicative
• Children who exhibit a high level of anxiety or apprehension
• Children who have extensive dental needs
• Children who have had a traumatic dental experience
• Children with developmental disabilities