When Is Sedation Recommended?
Sedation is not the starting point for every child or every visit. It may be recommended when treatment cannot be performed safely or comfortably without additional support, such as when a child is unable to sit still, is very anxious, or when cooperation is unpredictable.
We may recommend sedation when:
- A child has significant dental anxiety
- Treatment is longer or more involved
- A child is very young and precooperative
- Medical, developmental, or behavioral factors make treatment more challenging
- A positive experience is less likely without additional support
Our recommendations are always based on safety, the type of treatment needed, and what is most appropriate for your child.
Sedation Options We Offer
We offer two levels of support, depending on the situation.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide is a mild form of sedation that is breathed through a small nose mask during treatment. Children stay awake and responsive, but will feel calm and sleepy. The AAPD recognizes nitrous oxide and oxygen inhalation as a safe and effective way to reduce anxiety and support communication during pediatric dental care. Its effects wear off quickly after the mask is removed.
Sedation Through MobiSurg Surgery Center
For more involved cases or children who need a deeper level of support, treatment will be completed through MobiSurg Surgery Center with a pediatric medical anesthesiologist.
Their state-of-the-art surgery center and fully accredited mobile general anesthesia services add another layer of reassurance for parents when deeper sedation is the safest and most appropriate option.
How We Decide Which Option Is Right
The right sedation option depends on more than just nervousness. We look at the planned procedure, how long the visit is expected to take, your child’s age and comfort level, and whether the treatment can be completed safely in the office.
In general, nitrous oxide is often a good fit for children who need mild relaxation during shorter in-office treatment. Deeper sedation through a surgery center may be a better fit when treatment is more extensive or when anxiety or cooperation concerns make office-based care less predictable.
Before Your Child’s Sedation Visit
Preparation depends on the level of sedation being used. For nitrous oxide, most visits require very little preparation beyond helping your child arrive well rested and ready for treatment.
For deeper sedation through MobiSurg Surgery Center, we provide clear instructions ahead of time that may include:
- When to stop eating or drinking
- What medications to take or pause
- What to wear the day of treatment
- Who should accompany your child home
- What recovery time to expect afterward
Following these instructions closely helps support a safe and smooth visit.
Support That Matches Your Child’s Needs
Our goal is to help children receive the care they need in the least invasive, most appropriate way possible.
Many visits can be completed with communication, guidance, and local numbing alone. When sedation is recommended, it is because we believe it will make treatment safer, more comfortable, or more successful for your child.
Experienced Pediatric Specialists You Can Trust
Your child’s care is provided by board-certified pediatric dentists with advanced hospital-based training. Dr. John De Lorme and Dr. Sam Wu both completed their pediatric dental residencies at Harvard School of Dental Medicine and Boston Children’s Hospital, where they received extensive training in treating infants, children, and patients with complex dental needs.
This advanced training supports a conservative, thoughtful approach to care, with a focus on safety, comfort, and long-term development.
Insurance
We are in-network with Aetna and Cigna and will gladly bill your insurance and help you maximize your benefits.
FAQs
Will my child be asleep with nitrous oxide?
Nitrous oxide helps children feel calm and relaxed, but they stay awake, responsive, and able to communicate during treatment.
How long does nitrous oxide take to wear off?
The effects usually wear off within a few minutes after the mask is removed and oxygen is given. Most children return to their normal selves within a few minutes.
When is deeper sedation recommended instead of nitrous oxide?
Deeper sedation may be recommended for longer procedures, significant anxiety, extensive treatment needs, or when a child cannot comfortably complete care while awake.
Can my child go to school after nitrous oxide?
In most cases, yes. Children can usually return to school or normal daily activities soon after the appointment.
What if my child has special needs or medical concerns?
Sedation recommendations are carefully planned around your child’s health history, sensory needs, medications, and the type of treatment needed to support both comfort and safety.