Sedation

Dr. Prater  and Dr. Bre have had extensive training and experience in sedation for the pediatric dental patient. Children who are apprehensive and those who require extensive dental treatment may be a candidate for sedation. There are different types of sedation, including nitrous oxide (“happy gas”), oral conscious sedation and general anesthesia. The sedation techniques used by Dr. Prater and Dr. Bre follow the guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Sedation is an excellent way to make your child comfortable during their dental visit and have a positive dental experience.

Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, more commonly known as laughing gas, is often used as a conscious sedative during a dental visit. The gas is administered with a mixture of oxygen and has a calming effect that helps apprehensive or anxious patients relax during their dental treatment. Because it is a mild sedative, patients are still conscious and can talk to their dentist during their visit. After treatment, the nitrous is turned off and oxygen is administered for 5 to 10 minutes to help flush any remaining gas. The effects wear off almost immediately. Nitrous oxide rarely has side effects, although some patients may experience minor nausea. Dr. Prater will use this for most routine dental restorative procedures.

Oral Conscious Sedation
For children who are very apprehensive or if your child requires a lot of dental treatment, this method of sedation is effective. The patient is given oral medications in the office and after onset of the medications the child will become sleepy and drowsy. Dr. Prater and Dr. Bre will also use nitrous oxide and appropriate monitoring devices during the procedure. Patients are breathing on their own and they are arousable during the dental treatment. Most patients will sleep during their dental treatment.

General Anesthesia
General Anesthesia is a great solution for children who are fearful of the dentist, those undergoing extensive treatment, or those with significant medical or psychological condition(s). This method of sedation is also administered to children who are getting their tonsils removed or tubes put in their ears. A medical anesthesiologist and their team will be present in our office to care for your child while Dr. Prater or Dr. Bre performs dental procedures on your child. The sedative will put your child to sleep; making it possible for them to feel no discomfort.

Sign Up For More Information
Get our latest news and promotions!
We respect your privacy 100%.