What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry at Longhorn Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics keeps children comfortable and relaxed during dental treatments. Sedation services include local anesthesia, general anesthesia, and nitrous oxide. While sedation isn’t always needed, many children can benefit from it.
What are the benefits of sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry at Longhorn Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics helps your child during their dental appointment by:
- Reducing anxiety
- Helping them relax
- Eliminating pain
- Easing fears about the dentist
- Helping your child sit still
Sedation can make your child’s trip to the dentist enjoyable if they have dental anxiety, require invasive dental procedures, or have a difficult time sitting still. Sedation dentistry is often helpful for young patients and those with special needs.
Which sedation dentistry services are available?
The type of sedation that's right for your child depends on their unique needs, preferences, and dental procedures they require. The Longhorn Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics team might recommend:
Local anesthesia
Your child’s provider uses local anesthesia to numb a specific area, so your child doesn’t feel any pain during treatment. They can combine local anesthesia with other forms of sedation dentistry to manage anxiety when needed.
General anesthesia
General anesthesia helps your child sleep until treatment is complete. It’s an option for more invasive dental procedures, such as extraction and other dental surgeries.
Laughing gas
Laughing gas, also known as nitrous oxide, is a substance your child inhales through a mask to help them feel relaxed, happy, and comfortable. It reduces anxiety and quickly wears off after treatment, so children can resume normal activities.
Which type of sedation dentistry is right for my child?
In many cases, using sedation dentistry is entirely optional unless your child requires invasive dental procedures that are otherwise painful. The experts at Longhorn Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics work with you to find a solution that best matches your child’s needs.
To determine which treatment is required, dental providers take dental X-rays, review your child’s symptoms and dental history, and examine their teeth and gums. If your child has anxiety about the dentist, sedation dentistry is often a good option.
To learn more about sedation dentistry or schedule a routine six-month cleaning and dental exam, call the office at Longhorn Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics or book an appointment online today.
