As specialists in pediatric dentistry, we understand the value of ensuring your child has a positive experience at the dentist. Building a healthy relationship with dental care now will foster the growth of a foundation to support future oral health. This may be a difficult task with children and teens that experience dental fear or anxiety. Being afraid of visiting the dentist is not uncommon and is experienced by people of all ages, not just children.
Our team wants each and every guest to be comfortable and we maintain a focus on kindness, compassion, and patience at the forefront of everything we do. Still, we realize that some kids and teens need a little more help relaxing in the dentist’s chair; that’s why we offer multiple sedation options at our office—including nitrous oxide and in-office IV sedation. Contact our Kennett Square, PA office to schedule an appointment and find out which option can help your child.
Sedation Options: Nitrous Oxide & In-Office IV Sedation
Nitrous Oxide (“Laughing Gas”)
Nitrous oxide is a breathable form of sedation, administered through a small mask placed over your child’s nose. The gas (a blend of nitrogen and oxygen) works quickly to produce calming effects while keeping your child awake and able to respond to questions and instructions. Your child will be monitored continuously, and we can adjust the level of gas at any time.
At the end of the appointment, we flush the gas by providing pure oxygen for a few seconds through the mask. Nitrous oxide has no lingering effects for most patients, allowing your child to return to normal activity soon after the visit.
In-Office IV Sedation
For children and teens who need deeper relaxation, we also offer in-office IV sedation. This option is administered and monitored by qualified professionals and allows your child to remain in a sleep-like, deeply relaxed state throughout treatment while vital signs are continuously monitored. IV sedation can make longer or more complex procedures feel quick and comfortable and is especially helpful for patients with significant anxiety, strong gag reflexes, or special healthcare needs.
Before recommending IV sedation, our team will review your child’s medical history, discuss preparation and after-care instructions, and answer any questions to ensure a safe, smooth experience.
Who May Benefit From Sedation?
- Children with dental fear or anxiety
- Kids who have trouble sitting still
- Patients who require lengthy or multiple procedures
- Children with sensitive gag reflexes
- Patients with special healthcare needs
Comfort-First Care, Tailored To Your Child
If your child is experiencing dental anxiety, tell us how we can help make their visit more comfortable. Our team can accommodate most needs and—when appropriate—provide nitrous oxide or in-office IV sedation. We take your child’s fears seriously and work to build confidence with every visit. Contact our Kennett Square, PA office to learn more about our sedation options. During your child’s next appointment, we can determine the best approach and provide sedation if necessary.