pasadena
Pediatric Sedation Dentistry

What is Sedation Dentistry?

At Palm & Poppy, we offer two modalities of advanced behavioral management techniques in order to ensure comfort for anxious patients, those with special healthcare needs, and/or children undergoing extensive complex treatments. From nitrous oxide (anxiolytic) to IV anesthesia (sedation), we carefully help guide you in your decision on what's best for your child in order to help them feel most comfortable during dental procedures.

Comfortable Care for Every Child

Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

Reduced Anxiety

Nitrous oxide helps alleviate dental anxiety, allowing children to receive necessary care without fear. This positive experience can help build confidence for future dental visits, promoting long-term oral health.

Improved Cooperation

For children who struggle to sit still or have difficulty following instructions, nitrous oxide can help them remain calm and cooperative. This allows us to provide more efficient, effective treatment in fewer visits.

IV SEDATION

Sedation, when combined with local anesthesia, can help ensure a pain-free dental experience. This is especially beneficial for children undergoing more complex or lengthy procedures, enhancing their comfort throughout their treatment.

The Nitrous Oxide Treatment Process

A young girl sitting in a dentist chair.

Pre-appointment

Before the appointment, it's important for patients to fast for 2 hours beforehand to reduce the risk of nausea.

Treatment appointment

During your child's appointment, we'll place a comfortable nasal mask over their nose. As they breathe normally, the relaxing effects will start to take effect within just a few minutes.

A young boy in a hospital bed with an oxygen tube in his mouth.
A woman sitting on a chair with a little boy.

End of visit

Once their treatment is complete, we'll switch the airflow through the mask to pure oxygen. Within just 5-10 minutes of pure oxygen, nitrous is completely cleared out of the body.

The IV Sedation Treatment Process

Consultation and Evaluation

We begin with a thorough assessment of your child's medical history and dental needs. We'll discuss sedation options, answer your questions, and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your child's specific needs.

Pre-Sedation Instructions

We'll provide detailed instructions on preparing for the sedation appointment, including guidelines on eating and drinking. Following these instructions carefully helps ensure your child's safety and the effectiveness of the sedation.

Monitored Treatment

During the procedure, our experienced team closely monitors your child's vital signs. We use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure safety throughout the treatment. After the procedure, we'll provide comprehensive post-sedation care instructions.

Our Sedation Options

At Palm & Poppy, we offer different levels of sedation to meet your child's unique needs. Our team will help determine the most appropriate option for your child's comfort and safety.

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

Nitrous oxide is an anxiolytic, which means it reduces anxiety. As such, it does not cause sedation, but rather helps relax patients during treatment. Administered through a comfortable nasal mask, nitrous oxide takes effect quickly and wears off rapidly after the procedure. Children remain awake, but feel calm and sometimes giggly, hence the nickname "laughing gas."

In-Office IV Sedation

For more extensive, complex procedures, highly anxious patients, or patients with special needs, we offer in-office IV sedation administered by a specialized dental anesthesiologist. This deeper form of sedation ensures your child remains comfortable throughout longer treatments while being closely monitored for safety.

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Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

Nitrous oxide is an anxiolytic, which means it reduces anxiety. As such, it does not cause sedation, but rather helps relax patients during treatment. Administered through a comfortable nasal mask, nitrous oxide takes effect quickly and wears off rapidly after the procedure. Children remain awake, but feel calm and sometimes giggly, hence the nickname "laughing gas."

In-Office IV Sedation

For more extensive, complex procedures, highly anxious patients, or patients with special needs, we offer in-office IV sedation administered by a specialized dental anesthesiologist. This deeper form of sedation ensures your child remains comfortable throughout longer treatments while being closely monitored for safety.

Have Questions?

FAQs

How long does it take for the effects of nitrous oxide to wear off?
Is sedation dentistry safe for children?

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