Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) begins to work in just a few minutes. The gas will help your child relax during the procedure and he/she will be awake while the doctor works on his/her teeth. Our dentists will be able to have a conversation with your child, tell them stories, sing songs, or whatever your child enjoys to keep them occupied and distracted during the procedure. Once the dental work is complete your child will continue to breathe as normal and the effects will be reversed in just a few minutes. Your child will return to their typical self and may resume regular activities following the appointment.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral conscious sedation produces heavier effects than those of nitrous oxide but is not as pronounced as general anesthesia. Your child will drink approximately two tablespoons of juice mixed with a little medicine.
The medicine will make him/her feel sleepy and they often choose to fall asleep but can be awakened with a gentle tap on the shoulder. Your child’s mouth will likely feel numb and strange following the appointment but they skipped the portions of the appointment that were not as fun.
After the appointment, your child will be tired but alert and responsive. They will need to be watched by an adult for the remaining of the day. Books and TV are great activities while sports and school are not. Your child will likely feel normal by the next day.
General Anesthesia
General anesthesia performed in the office or hospital will help your child fall completely asleep, similar to when a child has their tonsils removed or ear tubes placed. The anesthesia will be performed by a competent and licensed anesthesiologist. While asleep, your child will not feel pain or discomfort and will have no memory of the dental work, which will be completed by the extraordinary pediatric specialists at Treasured Teeth.
At the conclusion of the procedure, your child will be awakened and discharged once stable. Your child may feel fatigued and sleepy that day. As with conscious sedation, books and TV are great activities.