PEDIATRIC SEDATION DENTISTRY
Mesa, AZ
“My daughter has always been afraid of the dentist, but after coming to Sun Valley Pediatric Dentistry, she loves the dentist. She doesn’t cry anymore and is happy to show off how clean her teeth are every time we go. The staff is wonderful!!”
Shea I.
Imagine your child undergoing a complex dental procedure—like a root canal, extraction, or oral surgery—feeling calm and comfortable throughout the process. After treatment, they won’t recall any pain, sounds, or discomfort. At our Mesa office, we proudly offer safe and effective sedation dentistry tailored for children, making dental visits pleasant for those who may:
- Feel fear or anxiety about dental appointments
- Have difficulty sitting still for extended periods
- Struggle to achieve or maintain numbness from anesthetics
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry allows your child’s dentist to perform various dental treatments safely and comfortably, especially for those who experience anxiety. The benefits include:
- No memory of the procedure
- No perception of time during treatment
- No awareness of smells or sounds
- Reduced fear and anxiety throughout the appointment
Levels of Sedation
Sedation dentistry is strictly regulated by law and typically involves three levels of sedation:
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Mild Sedation (Anxiolysis): This lightest form of sedation is ideal for children with mild anxiety, longer procedures, or complex situations. Administered orally, your child will remain awake or in a very sleepy state but will experience deep relaxation. Recovery is usually swift, with most patients returning to normal within a few hours. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is also an option for mild to moderate sedation, promoting relaxation during treatment.
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Moderate Sedation: Suitable for children with moderate anxiety or those undergoing longer or more complex procedures, this level of sedation typically involves light IV sedation. Your child will stay awake but remain deeply relaxed throughout the process.
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Deep Sedation: With deep sedation, patients fluctuate between consciousness and unconsciousness, often resulting in no memory of the procedure. They may not respond to commands even if they are awake at times.
How Are Sedatives Administered?
- Inhalation: Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is commonly used for mild to moderate anxiety. Recovery is quick, allowing your child to resume normal activities right after the appointment.
- Oral: Oral sedation involves administering a prescription pill about an hour before the visit, ensuring your child is fully relaxed upon arrival at our office. This needle-free technique is easy to administer.
For more information on the best sedation method for your child, please contact our sedation dentist in Mesa to schedule a consultation.