Pediatric Sedation Dentistryin Los Feliz, Los Angeles
We get it — going to the dentist isn’t always easy for children. Many kids have a hard time sitting still, which can make dental care difficult. Others may be anxious or scared about visiting the dentist. With our sedation options, your child can feel totally comfortable and relaxed during their treatment. It’s just one of the many ways we make each visit a positive experience.
Why Should I Choose Pediatric Sedation For My Child?
Pediatric sedation can make a big difference in helping your child feel calm and safe during dental visits. For mild anxiety or restlessness, nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is a gentle option that helps kids relax while staying awake and responsive. For more extensive procedures or higher levels of anxiety, IV sedation may be recommended—this provides a deeper level of relaxation and is closely monitored by trained professionals. Both options are designed to create a stress-free experience while ensuring your child gets the care they need. Not sure what’s right for your child? We’re here to talk it through with you.
The Benefits of Pediatric Sedation
Reducing Fear and Dental Anxiety
Visiting the dentist can be intimidating for children, especially for procedures like fillings. Sedation allows your child to feel calm and relaxed, ensuring a more comfortable experience during their dental appointment.
Minimizing Pain and Discomfort
When used with local anesthetics, sedation is highly effective in minimizing any potential pain and discomfort during dental treatments. This not only makes the process smoother for your child but also gives you peace of mind knowing they are comfortable.
Addressing Gag Reflex and Needle Phobia
Certain types of sedation can significantly reduce your child’s gag reflex. This is particularly beneficial for dental work on the back teeth. Sedation also helps alleviate the common fear of numbing needles.
Our Difference
Board-Certified Pediatric Dentists
Rest assured that your child is receiving top-notch, specialized care with our Board-Certified Pediatric Dentists. To be recognized by The American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, doctors must undergo extensive training in the pediatric field in addition to their standard dental degrees.
Laughing Gas for Little Smiles
The most mild form of sedation, nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas or minimally inhaled sedation, is a safe way to ensure your child stays relaxed during their treatment.
The Pediatric Sedation Treatment Process
Initial Consultation & Approval
Before considering sedation for your child, your child’s pediatric dentist will evaluate their health history, current medications, supplements, and other relevant health information. If your child is a good candidate, you will be informed about the available sedation options and which one will best suit their needs.
Preparation & Sedation
Your child's pediatric dentist will let you know if there’s anything you need to prepare before your child’s appointment. On the day of the visit, your child will receive sedation in our office, helping them stay calm and comfortable during their treatment.
Sedation Aftercare
Your child’s recovery process depends on the type of sedation used. They may recover within just a few minutes or require some special aftercare and monitoring after their appointment. Your pediatric dentist will give you all the details you need to care for your child after their treatment.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Check out these frequently asked questions, or call us to speak with our team.
Sedation in dentistry primarily serves to alleviate dental anxiety, which helps children remain calm and cooperative during their dental procedures. Many children experience fear or nervousness about dental visits, and sedation can significantly ease these feelings. It's also beneficial for managing discomfort during more involved procedures like tooth extractions, and it helps children who have difficulty staying still for extended periods during treatments.
Pediatric sedation is generally appropriate for children who are in good health and do not have any medical conditions or medications that could negatively interact with the sedation. It's best to consult with us for a personalized assessment. During a consultation, we can discuss your child's specific needs and address any concerns to determine the best option.
Every sedation option feels different. Laughing gas (nitrous oxide) helps children feel calm and slightly giggly. They’ll remain fully awake and responsive but won’t experience discomfort during treatment.
General anesthesia provides the deepest level of sedation. Your child will be completely asleep and unaware of the procedure, which is ideal for extensive dental work or patients with high anxiety or special health care needs.
Sedation dentistry is safe for healthy children of all ages, including toddlers when administered correctly. We ensure safety by conducting a thorough health history assessment and choosing the appropriate sedation method for each child. You’ll be fully informed about the chosen sedation technique, its effects, and aftercare requirements. All sedation procedures are carried out by qualified professionals on our team. At every step of the process, we prioritize your child's safety and comfort.
