OUR PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY SEDATION OPTIONS

Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas”, is a safe and predictable sedative. It is administered nasally with oxygen to the child in order to relax the patient and to help them be more receptive to the procedures. The child is not “put to sleep” but remains totally conscious and reactive. The flavored nosepiece also acts as a visual deterrent to hide any syringes or dental tools that might be “scary” if seen. The risk of complications is rare and its sedative effects are gone within three to five minutes after its use has been discontinued.

Conscious Sedation
Conscious sedation is a form of pediatric dentistry sedation in which liquid medications are used to relax a fearful, apprehensive child. This is used for children who may be too young to sit through a lengthy procedure, have extensive decay, or who are extremely apprehensive. At the initial appointment, pre-sedation instructions and a consent form will be reviewed. At the operative dental appointment, a liquid medicine is given 15 to 60 minutes prior to the procedure. After the medicine has taken effect, the child is placed on monitors so that we are able to monitor oxygen saturation and blood pressure.

General Anesthesia (Hospital Dentistry)
As a part of the Trident Medical Staff in Charleston SC, Dr. Isabel has the ability to take pediatric patients for outpatient surgery to have all of their dental work completed at one time. This is for patients who are young and have extensive work, are extremely apprehensive or fearful, or have special needs. It is an outpatient procedure that allows the child to have the surgery and go home the same day. Prior to scheduling an OR appointment, advantages, disadvantages, and all options are presented to the parents. OR instructions and consent forms are thoroughly reviewed. The parent will then be responsible for scheduling an appointment with the child’s pediatrician to ensure there are no medical concerns or contraindications to general anesthesia. After the procedure has been completed, post-op instructions will be reviewed with the parents.