Sedation Dentistry

At Medplex Pediatric Dentistry, we strive to provide the highest possible quality in pediatric dental care while maintaining a fun, friendly, and easygoing office environment. Dr. Baker and our expert team of highly trained pediatric dental specialists work hard to help all of our patients develop healthy, beautiful smiles, and we have the skills and experience to make every visit to our office a pleasant experience for all involved. But no matter how much we do, sometimes a dentist's appointment is a little too much for a little one - and that's where sedation dentistry can help.

Nitrous Oxide Dentistry

Nitrous oxide is a colorless gas with a slightly sweet odor, and it's been in use in the medical community for over a century. It's a safe and effective method for conscious sedation, in which the patient is still awake during the procedure but extra relaxed - sometimes even euphoric. Physiological functions remain normal under the sedative, and its effects dissipate quickly after the procedure.

How Is Nitrous Oxide Taken?

We administer nitrous oxide through a small, comfortable mask that fits loosely over the patient's nose. We mix the gas with oxygen as it's delivered, and we always maintain a safe and healthy saturation level of NO2. The gas usually takes effect within a few minutes, and often causes a sense of floating along with slight tingling in the hands and feet. Once we ensure that your child is calm and comfortable, we'll start the dental procedure.

Nitrous isn't a substitute for local anesthetic, but it does act as an anxiolytic, meaning it reduces feelings of anxiety. If local anesthetic is necessary for the procedure, we may give your child an additional numbing shot - but under the effects of the gas, they won't mind at all. Your child won't be asleep during the procedure and will still have full ability to talk, understand their surroundings, and control themselves. We'll fine-tune the dosage to match your child's unique physiological needs and provide just the right amount to keep them comfortable but alert.

Once we complete the procedure, we'll take your child off gas, and within a few minutes your child will feel completely normal. There are no side effects, no lasting impairments, and virtually no dangers to your child.

Should My Child Use Nitrous Oxide?

The American Dental Association as a safe form of sedation has approved conscious sedation during dental treatments, and if anxiety would otherwise impede your child's ability to sit down for a visit, we'd recommend it as a way to make treatment more feasible. Before administering nitrous oxide, we'll complete a thorough review of your child's medical history and current medications to ensure the drug is safe - and when we do administer the gas, we'll use our magic touch to keep them comfortable and calm during treatment. And once the procedure is over? Your child may not even remember a thing!

Contact Your Birmingham, AL Pediatric Dental Specialist

Have more questions about sedation dentistry or want to make an appointment for your child? We're here to help. Feel free to reach out to us at our contact page or use our easy online form to schedule an appointment at our Birmingham, AL office. We can't wait to hear from you, and we look forward to providing your child a relaxed dental experience with sedation dentistry!