The Basics Of Sedation Dentistry

Types Of Sedation We Offer

Sedation dentistry refers to the practice of using sedative medications to help patients feel more calm and relaxed throughout their procedure. This can be done on patients of all ages, but it’s particularly common for kids, and for children and adults who may have special needs or who have serious dental anxiety.

We offer both laughing gas and general anesthesia. Both are good options for your child, but have their own pros and cons, so we recommend consulting with Dr. Richard to learn more.

The Benefits Of Sedation Dentistry

Calm, Relaxed & Gentle Care

Keep your little one relaxed

Even if your child is anxious or scared of the dentist, sedation will help them remain calm and get through their appointment more easily.

Help them sit through long appointments

Some kids may have trouble sitting still for 1-2 hours or longer if they need multiple treatments. Sedation dentistry makes it easier for your little one to behave and feel comfortable during treatment.

Deal with fear of needles & strong gag reflexes

Sedation is very useful when kids need their mouths numbed, since many children are afraid of numbing needles. It also can help inhibit the gag reflex, which is useful in a variety of situations.

Help Your Child Relax

Laughing Gas Sedation

Laughing gas sedation uses a nose mask that sends a stream of oxygen and nitrous oxide into your child’s lungs.

The nitrous oxide, also called “laughing gas,” will make them feel happy, reduce anxiety, and help reduce any potential pain and discomfort along with local numbing. It wears off after only a few minutes, too, so your child can go back to school and their day-to-day routine after their appointment at Milpitas Children’s Dentistry.

Simple & Safe Sedation

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe For Kids?

What You Should Know

Dr. Richard has years of experience in pediatric dental sedation, and has successfully treated hundreds of patients. At our office, we use the latest techniques and best practices to sedate children, and your child will be entirely safe throughout the entire process. Contact us to learn more about Dr. Richard’s experience, and to learn how we keep kids safe while they’re sedated in Milpitas, San Jose, and Fremont.

How Do I Prepare My Child to Be Sedated?

Always inform Dr. Richard of any medical conditions your child has or medications that they take. If your child has taken a medication such as ibuprofen within 24 hours leading up to their sedation appointment, we need to know.

Nitrous Oxide – There isn’t much preparation required for laughing gas as it’s the mildest and safest sedative available in sedation dentistry. However, we ask that your child refrains from eating for 2 hours before receiving the sedative. This helps prevent nausea and vomiting. It’s best to eat something light like toast at least 2 hours before the appointment.

Sedation Aftercare for My Child

Nitrous Oxide – Laughing gas quickly leaves the system once we flush the gas mask with pure oxygen. It will take a few minutes for your child to feel back to normal. Nitrous oxide doesn’t cause lingering hangover effects but they likely won’t remember the procedure and may feel tired. We may need to keep them for observation for a short period. Make sure they drink plenty of fluids if they are feeling nauseous.

Is Sedation Covered By Insurance?

This depends on your insurance and the level of coverage you have, as well as the reason you are getting sedation. Insurance generally will not cover the cost of dental sedation when it is for an elective procedure or only for increased comfort.

It may, however, be covered in cases where sedation is medically necessary such as for a complex procedure. If a dental treatment requires the use of general anesthesia, this is more likely to be covered than sedation used to alleviate dental anxiety during a routine appointment. The best way to know what your insurance will cover is to call your provider and ask.

At Milpitas Children’s Dental, we never want the cost of treatment or lack of insurance to prevent your child from feeling comfortable during their appointment. That’s why we offer flexible payment options to help you pay for dental treatments and sedation. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Richard.

Silver Diamine Fluoride

The Best Alternative to Dental Fillings

Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is a great alternative to dental fillings for baby teeth. SDF uses a special blend of fluoride, silver, ammonia, and water, which is applied to a cavity in a liquid form. This liquid destroys the bacteria that cause the cavity and halts the progression of the cavity. A fluoride varnish is applied to the area, sealing it and preventing future damage.

This treatment is ideal for baby teeth because it stops the cavity from getting worse, and keeps the tooth healthy until it falls out naturally. However, it’s not recommended for permanent teeth, since it will stain the treated area permanently.

It may also not be a good option for very deep cavities. An alternative treatment like a filling or dental crown may be required in serious cases of tooth decay.