Sedation Dentistry

Many children are afraid of the dentist, and this can lead to dental problems that may be difficult or impossible to fix later on. If your child is afraid of the dentist, sedation dentistry may be the answer. Sedation dentistry uses medications to help children relax and feel comfortable during their dental appointment. In some cases, sedation dentistry can even be used to calm very young children who are not yet able to sit still for a dental exam. There are several types of sedatives that can be used, but nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is one of the most popular options. Dr. Josh Morales is specially trained in providing pediatric sedation dentistry, and uses only the safest and most effective sedation techniques. To schedule an appointment and learn about sedation dentistry, call the Montgomery, Texas, office or make a reservation through the online booking portal.

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry helps children feel calm and at ease during their visit to the dentist. 

While great for young children and first-time dentist-goers, sedation dentistry is also great for people with severe anxiety, sensitive reflexes, and disabilities.

Though sedation may make someone drowsy, they’re still easily awakened throughout the procedure. Sedation medications often have an amnestic effect, meaning the patient will not remember the appointment at all. This can be an advantage for very young and anxious children, so that they will not fear going to the dentist. 

What are the types of sedation dentistry?

Josh Morales, DDS, can supply various types of sedation depending on the specific circumstance. However, he’ll choose the safest and most comfortable option for you and your child. The experts at Mor Smiles 4 Kids may offer sedation dentistry in the form of:

Laughing gas

Also called nitrous oxide, laughing gas is an inhalant that travels through a mask or nose piece that rests on the face. Your child can feel more relaxed in just a few minutes and sometimes becomes giggly. After the procedure, Dr. Morales flushes out any laughing gas not filtered out by the body with fresh oxygen. Allowing your child to leave no goofier than they came in.

Oral sedation

Sedation also comes in pill or liquid form and offers a stronger effect than laughing gas. Because many children struggle to swallow a pill, liquid administration is the preferred method.

Intravenous (IV) sedation

While not the right fit for every case, it can allow our younger and more fearful patients to "sleep" through dental treatment that needs to be completed before a trusting relationship can be developed between Dr. Josh and your child. 

What are the benefits of sedation dentistry?

Many people receive sedation during their visit to the dentist. Your child may be an excellent candidate for sedation dentistry if they have the following:

• Large amount of treatment needs
• Pre-Cooperative: very young
• Severe anxiety
• Extreme sensitivity
• Claustrophobia
• Strong gag reflex
• Impaired muscle control

Though not an exhaustive list, your child can have a safer and more pleasurable experience by using sedation dentistry. Dr. Josh will cover all of your options and can help you decide if sedation dentistry is right for your child.

Call the Montgomery, Texas, office today to meet with Dr. Morales or book quickly and efficiently through the online portal.