At Growing Smiles in Floral Vale, we specialize in a technique known as oral conscious sedation. This method is highly recommended for children who need dental treatment, particularly those who are young, nervous, have special needs, or require multiple visits.
Unlike general anesthesia, oral conscious sedation allows children to breathe independently and respond to verbal commands. Many children become so relaxed that they fall asleep, and all necessary dental work can be completed in one visit, making the experience easier for both the child and the parent.
We also recommend nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, to help calm anxious children. This mild sedative keeps patients conscious and able to communicate during their dental visit. Nitrous oxide rarely has side effects and is routinely used in many dental procedures.
Licensed and Experienced Sedation Dentists
Dr. Sheryl Radin and Dr. Ross Levine are experts in administering oral conscious sedation exclusively for children. Providing in-office oral conscious sedation requires specialized training and state licensing. With extensive experience, we have safely sedated thousands of children, ensuring high-quality dental care without needing to resort to general anesthesia in a surgery center.
Preparing for Oral Sedation Medicine
What to Expect:
Pre-Treatment Instructions: Patients should come to their appointment with no food or drink after midnight the night before their treatment. An empty stomach improves the effectiveness of the medication and reduces the risk of vomiting.
Medical Review and Medication: We will review your child’s medical history, weigh them, and then administer the medication based on their weight that day.
Oral Sedation Coupled with Laughing Gas
Effectiveness Timeline:
Sedation Onset: The sedation medication usually takes about 1 hour to take effect, making your child drowsy and relaxed. At this point, you will be separated from your child, and Dr. Radin or Dr. Levine will be with them throughout the procedure.
Patient Safety: During the procedure, we prioritize safety by using nitrous oxide in combination with oxygen to keep the patient calm. We continuously monitor vital signs, including blood oxygen levels, breathing rate, and heart rate.
Post-Sedation Care: After sedation, children may feel groggy and tired. Due to lingering effects such as dizziness and sleepiness, it’s advisable for your child to avoid returning to school or daycare on the same day. Your doctor will check in that night to see how your child is doing. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at 215-860-9808.
What is Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)?
Nitrous oxide is a widely used mild sedative in dentistry. This sweet-smelling, colorless gas, often called “laughing gas,” induces feelings of relaxation and well-being when inhaled.
It is a safe, effective option for many patients, especially children and adolescents. To reverse the effects of nitrous oxide, have the patient breathe deeply and calmly for a few moments, and the effects should quickly diminish.
