09
Oct
Pain-Free Sedation Dentistry FAQ: Everything You Need to Know
At South OC Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in Mission Viejo, CA, we understand that dental visits can be daunting for kids. We provide nitrous oxide and general anesthesia as sedation dentistry options to ensure your visit is stress-free and comfortable. Here’s a comprehensive FAQ to help you understand how sedation dentistry can benefit your child.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Medication is used in sedation dentistry to help patients feel at ease and relaxed while receiving dental care. For children, this method helps ease anxiety, minimize discomfort, and make dental visits more manageable and comfortable manageable. We offer two main types of sedation: nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and general anesthesia.
How Does Nitrous Oxide Work?
Nitrous oxide, often called laughing gas, is a gentle sedative administered through your child’s nose. It helps them feel relaxed while staying awake and responsive during the procedure. The effects of nitrous oxide stop fairly quickly, allowing your child to resume normal activities shortly after the procedure. It is a great option for managing mild to moderate anxiety.
What is General Anesthesia?
General anesthesia involves administering a medication that puts your child into a sleep-like state for the dental procedure. This option is used for more complex procedures or for children with severe anxiety who cannot remain still. General anesthesia ensures that your child is completely unaware of the procedure and pain-free throughout.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe for My Child?
Yes, sedation dentistry is generally safe for children when administered by a qualified dental professional. Our team is trained in the safe use of sedation methods. We thoroughly evaluate your child’s health and medical history to determine the most appropriate sedation option. We also closely monitor your child’s vital signs during the procedure to ensure their safety.
What Should I Expect Before, During, and After Sedation?
- Before the Procedure: We will discuss the sedation option that best suits your child’s needs and provide instructions on how to prepare, such as fasting if general anesthesia is used.
- During the Procedure: Our team will administer the sedation as planned and closely monitor your child’s comfort and safety.
- After the Procedure: If nitrous oxide was used, your child will likely return to normal within a short period. For general anesthesia, your child may need some time to wake up and recover. We will provide specific post-procedure care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
How Do I Prepare My Child for a Sedation Appointment?
Prepare your child by explaining the procedure in simple, reassuring terms. Let them know that the sedation will help them feel relaxed and that the procedure will be over before they know it. Follow our team’s pre-procedure instructions, such as not eating or drinking before the appointment.
Call Us for More Information
Sedation dentistry can make dental visits more comfortable and less stressful for your child. If you have questions about our sedation options or would like to schedule an appointment, please call South OC Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics at (949) 581 5800. Our caring team ensures your child’s dental experience is positive and pain-free.
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Dr. John De Lorme
Dr. John De Lorme is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD). He is a healthcare leader in his community, speaking at parent/child classes throughout South Orange County for the last 30 years. He attended Saint Mary’s College, University of the Pacific – Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, and the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and Boston Children’s Hospital for his residency.
Dr. Samuel Wu
Dr. Samuel Wu, also an ABPD Diplomate, attended the University of California in Berkeley and Los Angeles and spent his residency at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and Boston Children’s Hospital. He has a passion for medical missions to other countries.
Both Drs. De Lorme and Wu are affiliated with MobiSurg, an Accredited Surgery Center, and are members of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, California Society of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Society, California Dental Association, Orange County Dental Society, and American Academy of Pediatrics.
Dr. Chris Carter
Dr. Chris Carter completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and dental school and residency at Oregon Health and Science University. He practiced general dentistry for five years before specializing in orthodontics. His experience at the University of California – Irvine’s Plastic Surgery Department allows him to craft smiles that perfectly complement each patient’s unique facial features.
Dr. Carter is a member of the Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society, Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists, American Association of Orthodontists, Orange County Dental Society, California Dental Association, and American Dental Association.