Sedation dentistry describes the utilization of certain pharmacological agents for calming and relaxing a nervous patient before and during a dental procedure. Our team at Cosmic Smiles Pediatric Dentistry offers two treatment modalities as a way to provide a comfortable, relaxed and positive experience for our little patients who may not be able to tolerate treatment in a usual in-office dental setting.
Nitrous oxide is a mild anxiolytic that can help our young patients feel calmer throughout their appointment. Since it may produce a feeling of giddiness or euphoria, it is often called “laughing gas.” It has no odor and is colorless. It is administered through a small nasal mask, we turn on both nitrous oxide and oxygen, and all your child has to do is breathe in. Within minutes, a warm blanket of calm will come over them.
Nitrous oxide is perhaps the safest sedative in dentistry- it has no negative effects on the heart, lungs, liver or brain. It works very quickly and its effects are reversible. Once the gas is turned off, the patient returns to their normal self within a few minutes. Nitrous oxide does not put a child to sleep; it just helps them remain calm and stress-free so that our team can safely complete treatment. Contact our Fort Lauderdale practice today if you have any questions or concerns, or if you’re ready to schedule a first visit!
General anesthesia is typically reserved for children that are extremely apprehensive, or if the child requires extensive dental work. Treatment is performed in a hospital operating room while your child is completely asleep. This would be the same as if he/she was having their tonsils removed, ear tubes, or hernia repaired. It is performed at Broward Health Medical Center, where Dr. Berlin is on-staff and holds privileges. There are several important steps prior to undergoing general anesthesia, which we will help you complete. We feel fortunate that Dr. Berlin is in good standing with a top rated children’s hospital allowing us to offer this type of treatment when necessary.
For additional questions about sedation dentistry or to schedule an appointment- simply call, text, or email us.
