Sedation Dentistry
in Richmond, VA
Sedation Dentistry
in Richmond, VA
At Bitty Bites Pediatric Dentistry, we understand that some of our young patients are fearful of the dentist. We strive to provide stress-free dental care, and one of the ways we do that is by offering sedation dentistry options, including general anesthesia, right here at our Richmond practice.
Dr. North and Dr. Bates, our board-certified pediatric dentists, are pleased to partner with Dr. Heather Ballentine Daubenspeck of Commonwealth Dental Anesthesia. Dr. North has collaborated with Dr. Daubenspeck since 2016. Our experienced anesthesiologist will monitor your child's vital signs throughout dental treatment in the comfortable and familiar environment of our kid-friendly office. Your child's safety and comfort are always our priorities.
Who Is a Candidate for General Anesthesia?
General anesthesia can be a game-changer for the following:
- Children with acute situational dental anxiety that prevents them from cooperating during necessary dental treatment
- Children who require extensive or complex dental treatments
- Children with special healthcare needs
- Very young children who are unable to understand or follow directions
- Children with a strong gag reflex, which makes dental treatment difficult
- Children with previous negative or traumatic dental experiences
Dr. North, Dr. Bates, and their team will consider your child's age, medical history, required treatments, and unique needs before recommending general anesthesia. Our goal is to provide your child with safe, comfortable, and effective dental care.
How to Prepare for General Anesthesia
The process begins with a consultation at Bitty Bites Pediatric Dentistry, during which Dr. North or Dr. Bates will conduct a thorough examination of your child's teeth and create a personalized dental treatment plan. This is also when you will meet with our surgery coordinator, Vickie, who will be your point of contact throughout the entire process.
To move forward with scheduling a surgery date, our anesthesiologist will need to review your child's medical history. Please bring a copy of your child's most recent well-visit notes from their pediatrician to the consultation appointment. These notes must be dated within the last 12 months. Once Dr. Daubenspeck has reviewed your child's health history and given her approval, Vickie will work with your family to schedule the surgery date.
Note: If your child develops any illness, such as a cough, cold, runny nose, or fever, within 2 weeks of the scheduled surgery date, please contact our office right away to reschedule your child's treatment, typically six weeks after the illness has resolved.
Pre-Operative Instructions
During the week of the surgery, Dr. Daubenspeck's office will reach out to your family from a 434 area code number. This call will cover all pre-operative instructions, including important guidelines about when to stop giving your child solid foods and liquids before the procedure.
What to Expect on the Day of Your Child's Procedure
General anesthesia at Bitty Bites Pediatric Dentistry is performed right here in our office, not in a hospital setting. Dr. Daubenspeck and her team from Commonwealth Dental Anesthesia administer the anesthesia and monitor your child throughout treatment. Having a dedicated anesthesiologist ensures the highest standard of safety and allows our dental team to focus on caring for your child's smile.
Your little one will be completely asleep throughout the procedure and will have no memory of receiving treatment, helping create positive associations with future dental care. Our team will ensure your child is comfortable and fully recovered before you leave our office, and we will provide clear post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
Understanding the Costs of General Anesthesia
It is important to know that anesthesiologist fees are separate from our dental fees. We will review both in detail at your child's consultation appointment. We are happy to offer payment plan options to help ensure quality pediatric dental care is accessible to every family in Richmond and the surrounding communities. Please do not hesitate to ask Vickie about payment arrangements during your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About General Anesthesia Dentistry
Is general anesthesia safe for children?
General anesthesia has an excellent safety record when administered by a qualified dental anesthesiologist. Dr. Daubenspeck is a trained dental anesthesiologist with years of experience working with pediatric patients alongside Dr. North and Dr. Bates.
Where is the procedure performed?
General anesthesia dentistry at Bitty Bites Pediatric Dentistry is performed in our office, not at a hospital. This allows your child to receive care in a familiar, kid-friendly environment.
Can I stay with my child during the procedure?
To maintain the highest safety standards and a sterile environment, parents typically remain in a comfort room during the procedure while the anesthesiologist and dental team perform the treatment. You can be with your child as they fall asleep in the treatment area. Once asleep, our team will escort you to a comfort room devoted to your family for the visit. Water and coffee are available for you as you wait. You will be reunited as the procedure is completed and your child begins the initial stages of waking up.
How long does the procedure take?
The length of the appointment depends on the extent of your child's treatment plan. Dr. North or Dr. Bates will go over the expected timeline at your consultation.
What Are the Benefits of General Anesthesia for Pediatric Dental Care?
Here is a look at some of the benefits of general anesthesia in pediatric dentistry:
- Fewer Appointments: General anesthesia allows Dr. North, Dr. Bates, and their team to complete complex or lengthy procedures in a single visit, reducing the number of appointments and stress for our young patients.
- Safer and More Effective Care: Because your child is fully asleep and comfortable throughout the procedure, Dr. North and Dr. Bates can provide safer and more effective care without the challenges that may arise when a child is anxious or unable to stay still.
- Reduced Anxiety: For children with anxiety or special healthcare needs, general anesthesia eliminates the distress that can accompany dental treatment and ensures that every procedure is completed safely.
- Positive Associations with the Dentist: General anesthesia helps prevent negative dental memories and supports a more positive outlook on future dental care.
General Anesthesia for Children Near Me in Richmond, VA
At Bitty Bites Pediatric Dentistry, we are dedicated to providing our young patients in Richmond, VA and the surrounding communities with the best possible dental care in a safe and welcoming environment. Whether your child is facing a lengthy or complex dental procedure, has special healthcare needs, or struggles to sit still for long, general anesthesia can help create a calm and comfortable experience. You can count on our caring team for quality, compassionate dental care at every step!
We invite you to call or text us at 804-215-8600 to schedule your child's appointment or request one by following this link today!
Request Your Appointment Today!
At Bitty Bites Pediatric Dentistry, we make it convenient to plan your visit. Click the link to request an appointment time that fits your busy schedule. We can't wait to see you!