Sedation Dentistry Specialist

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is an aspect of quality dental care that focuses on providing comfort and relaxation while a patient undergoes dental procedures. Pediatric dental sedation allows children who are very young, anxious, unable to be still, or with special challenges, to safely and comfortably undergo the treatments they need.

RyeSmiles Pediatric Dentistry offers a range of options for sedation dentistry, including nitrous oxide, intravenous (IV) sedation, and general anesthesia.

Under the guidance of a board-certified dental anesthesiologist, they provide varying levels of sedation from very light and relaxed to completely sedated, depending on their needs.

Is sedation dentistry appropriate for my child?

The dental team may recommend sedation dentistry if your child:

• Is anxious, worried, or fearful
• Is unable to sit still or cooperate with instructions
• Has special needs or complex medical issues
• Needs extensive or lengthy dental work and unable to complete necessary work under routine settings

The team discusses these options with you before giving your child sedation, so you know they are safe and are getting the best care possible while under the care of the RyeSmiles Pediatric Dentistry team.

When is sedation dentistry appropriate for my child?

When quality dental treatment requires your child to be still and relaxed, sedation dentistry is a viable option. Sedation dentistry can benefit their dental care when they are getting treatments, such as:

• Fillings
• Root scaling and planing
• Extractions
• Orthodontic work
• Pulpotomy/Root canal therapy

Different dental procedures and children require differing levels of sedation. The team discusses with you which level of sedation is best for your child and their dental plan.

Is my child completely asleep with sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry offers varied levels of alertness, depending on the child's needs and the procedure they are having done.

• Nitrous oxide - awake but very relaxed
• IV sedation - lightly or moderately asleep during the procedure
• General anesthesia - deeply asleep during the procedure and airway maintenance

The dental team gives you detailed instructions about how to care for your child after they receive sedation. They explain what to expect about their level of drowsiness the day of the procedure and answer any questions you may have.

For quality dental care and safe sedation dentistry, call RyeSmiles Pediatric Dentistry or schedule an appointment online today.