Pediatric Dental Sedation in Fairfield, CA

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry uses medication to help children feel more relaxed during dental treatment. It can be helpful for children who feel very anxious, have trouble sitting still for treatment, or need more extensive dental work.

Some children do very well with reassurance and step-by-step guidance alone. Others benefit from an added layer of support, such as nitrous oxide or IV sedation.

When Is Sedation Recommended?

Sedation is not needed for every child, but it can be a helpful option in certain situations.

Sedation may be recommended when a child:

• Has severe dental anxiety or fear
• Needs extensive restorative treatment
• Is very young and unable to tolerate treatment safely
• Has special healthcare or sensory needs that make treatment more difficult
• Has had trouble completing treatment comfortably in the past

Whenever possible, we start with the least invasive approach that will still help your child have a successful visit.

Types of Sedation We Offer

We offer sedation options based on your child’s needs and treatment plan.

Nitrous Oxide 

Also called laughing gas, nitrous oxide is a mild form of sedation breathed in through a small nose mask. It helps children feel relaxed during treatment while staying awake and responsive. The effects wear off quickly once the mask is removed, and most children return to normal within minutes.

IV Sedation

IV sedation is a deeper level of sedation recommended for children with severe anxiety or those who need more extensive treatment. It is provided in-office with an anesthesiologist. Children are asleep during the procedure and often remember little, if anything, afterward. After the appointment, your child will need time to rest as the effects wear off.

General Anesthesia

In some cases, a deeper level of sedation may be appropriate. In that case general anesthesia may be required in a hospital setting, we will refer them to the appropriate setting for care.

Before Your Child’s Sedation Appointment

Some children may need a medical exam or clearance from their primary care provider before receiving sedation. 

You will be given specific instructions ahead of time, including when your child should stop eating or drinking. The morning of the appointment it is imperative to not let your child eat or drink ANYTHING, we want their stomach empty.  Please also look throughout your car before you get going to make sure there aren’t any hidden snacks.  It is important to follow these closely, as they play a role in keeping your child safe during sedation.

On the day of the visit, dress your child in comfortable clothing (PJ’s with a short sleeved shirt) and plan to stay with them afterward while they rest and recover.  Please bring your child’s comfort blanket so they can wrap up and feel more at ease.  If you have any questions leading up to the appointment, our team is always here to help you feel prepared and confident.

A Thoughtful Approach to Sedation

Sedation is one part of care, not the whole approach. We look at the bigger picture, focusing on your child’s comfort, ability to cope, and long-term oral health so the experience sets them up for success.

Our goal is never simply to get through the appointment. It is to support your child in a way that feels appropriate for them.

FAQ