Sedation

Children who are very young or who have a high level of anxiety that interferes with the cooperation necessary for the dentist to perform treatment may require some level of sedation. Sedation is also helpful for special needs children. There are many safe and effective drugs available today that can help relax the child and promote a good environment for optimal and safe dental treatment.

Conscious sedation is an option for children who are apprehensive and/or anxious. We administer this highly effective method in the form if an inhalation method using nitrous oxide ("laughing gas") and oxygen.

Deep sedation is sometimes necessary for children that are unable, by either age or maturity level, to cooperate during dental treatment. Our practice works with a pediatric dentist who is highly experienced in treating patients under general anesthesia through Children's Hospital Oakland.  For those patients who are in need of this type of treatment, a consultation appointment may be arranged through our office and details regarding the procedure will be discussed.

Sedation dentistry is most helpful for:

• Infants
• Children who require major treatment
• A very anxious child
• Children that have had traumatic dental experiences (sound and smell aversion)
• Children with a strong gag reflex
• Children who are medically compromised or have special needs