At Wild Smiles in Lexington, SC, we understand that dental visits can be challenging for some children, especially those who experience anxiety or have special healthcare needs. To ensure that all our young patients receive the dental care they need in the most comfortable and stress-free manner possible, we offer safe pediatric sedation dentistry options for our patients. This includes nitrous oxide sedation as well as oral conscious sedation and IV sedation, administered in our Lexington office in cooperation with our partners from Coastal Family Oral Surgery & Sedation.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation Dentistry for Children in Lexington, SC
Often referred to as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is a safe and effective sedative agent that is inhaled through a small mask that fits over your child’s nose. It is used to calm and relax patients who may feel anxious before or during their dental procedure. Nitrous oxide is mild, non-addictive, and its effects wear off quickly once the mask is removed, allowing children to return to their normal activities immediately after the appointment.
Benefits of Nitrous Oxide Sedation
- Reduces anxiety and increases cooperation during dental procedures.
- Takes effect quickly and recovery is rapid.
- The depth of sedation can be adjusted at any time to ensure the child’s comfort.
- Safe for virtually all children, including those with special needs.
Other Sedation Dentistry Options for Children
For children who need a deeper level of sedation, we offer additional options:
- Oral Conscious Sedation: This involves giving the child a prescribed dose of sedative medication before the dental visit. The medication helps to significantly reduce anxiety and minimize discomfort during dental procedures.
- IV Sedation: Administered and monitored by a certified anesthesiologist, IV sedation is typically reserved for longer dental procedures or for children with severe anxiety or those who have difficulty with other types of sedation.
Our Commitment to Safe Sedation
Safety is our top priority when using any type of sedation. Before administering any sedative, our trained professionals will review your child’s medical history and explain how the sedation will be used. During the procedure, your child’s vitals are continuously monitored to ensure their safety. Our team is extensively trained in sedation techniques and emergency preparedness to address any situation that may arise.
We believe in keeping parents fully informed and involved in their child’s dental care decisions. Before deciding on sedation, we discuss all available options with you, taking into account your child’s health, the nature of the procedure, and your child’s comfort level.
Make a Referral or Schedule an Appointment for Pediatric Sedation Dentistry
If you’re a health care provider or other community resource looking to refer a patient for pediatric sedation dentistry in Lexington, SC, contact the CFOSS team directly by calling their office or submitting a referral online. If you’re a parent or guardian looking to schedule an appointment for your child, ask us at your next appointment or call the CFOSS team or schedule an appointment online.