Sedation

Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen Analgesia (Laughing Gas)

Nitrous Oxide Sedation: this type of sedation is given as an inhalation agent, where the child wears a mask on their nose which delivers the nitrous oxide. Nitrous oxide creates a slight “happy” feeling. When treatment is completed your child will be given 100% oxygen and they will have no residual effects. Nitrous oxide is the safest drug that we have in anesthesia and dentistry. This type of sedation is good to use with children who may have slight anxiety, or have limited work that needs to be done.

Oral Conscious Sedation

We take sedation very seriously at our office. Each doctor has certified in oral conscious sedation, has completed an anesthesia rotation and has performed multiple sedations as part of their pediatric dental training. We also have a pediatric nurse present to assist in monitoring the sedation.

For oral sedation your child will be given a medication which will relax him/her but not put them completely asleep. They will be awake and able to follow directions during the procedure. The goal of oral sedation is not to have the patient asleep but to have them relax and not remember the appointment. Oral sedation is best for healthy patients with limited treatment.

General Anesthesia

General anesthesia is sometimes necessary to complete treatment. This service is a 1-2 hour surgical procedure in which the child is put completely to sleep by an anesthesiologist and a breathing tube is placed. The dentist then performs all necessary dental treatment. These cases are done on an outpatient basis at Children’s Mercy Surgicenter.

General Anesthesia is most helpful for:

• Infants
• Children who require major treatment
• A very anxious child
• Children that have had traumatic dental experiences
• Children who are medically compromised or have special needs