Sedation Dentistry

in Richmond, VA

Sedation Dentistry

in Richmond, VA

Dental anxiety is extremely common and isn't limited to just adults. Many children are also fearful of dental treatment. At Bitty Bites Pediatric Dentistry, we do everything we can to ensure our young patients enjoy comfortable, stress-free visits to our office. One of the ways we do that is offering sedation dentistry options, which help your child relax in the dentist's chair!

How Does Sedation Dentistry Help?

Sedation dentistry has become a game-changer when it comes to pediatric dental care. It takes the edge off your child's dental visits, and vastly reduces the risk of injury. Sedation allows for the safe treatment of young patients who are often unable to stay still during dental procedures, especially lengthy or complex ones. Sedation is particularly useful for kids with special needs, preventing spontaneous movement, guiding cooperative behavior, and allowing for safe and pain-free dental care.

Nitrous Oxide Sedation

Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is the most common form of sedation dentistry used to relax children during dental procedures. Your child will breathe a combination of nitrous oxide and oxygen through a small breathing mask and will remain awake and responsive during treatment. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry considers this form of sedation safe and effective for treating children's dental needs.

Conscious Sedation

Children undergoing complex or lengthy dental procedures, or those with high levels of anxiety may require conscious sedation, which involves the use of oral medications to help your child relax. Your child may be drowsy, and may even fall asleep, but will remain awake and responsive to directions.

In-Office General Anesthesia

Depending on your child's needs, we may recommend in-office general anesthesia for lengthy treatment plans. Our office works with a licensed and board-certified dental anesthesiologist to provide in-office GA. Your child will fall asleep and will wake up with no memory of the procedure.