Sedation

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 drugs available today that can help relax the child and promote a good environment for optimal and safe dental treatment.

Conscious sedation is an option for children who are older (2 years old and above) and are mildly apprehensive. This highly effective method can be administered in oral form along with the use of nitrous oxide (N20-02).

Sedation dentistry is most helpful for:

• Children who require major treatment
• A very anxious child
• Children that have had traumatic dental experiences (sound and smell aversion)
• Children with a strong gag reflex
• Children who are medically compromised or have special needs