Nitrous Oxide & IV Sedation

Sedation Dentistry for Children with Anxiety

While many dental procedures can be performed with a local anesthetic only, sometimes your child may need some encouragement to help them to relax so they will sit still long enough to complete their dental work. West Mobile Children’s Dentistry makes every effort to keep the children calm, comfortable, and trusting of the staff, but sometimes a child may benefit from laughing gas (nitrous oxide) or IV sedation.

Children who may need some help to stay calm and still during a dental visit include those who:

  • Have developed an anxiety about visiting the dentist
  • Have a strong natural gag reflex that interferes with dental treatment
  • Are unable to sit still due to their age, certain health problems, or developmental disabilities

If your child falls into one of these categories, West Mobile Children’s Dentistry will consult with you about the benefits of Nitrous Oxide and/or IV sedation before we begin. Depending upon the specific procedure and the needs of your child, we will decide together whether we chose to use Nitrous Oxide or IV Sedation.

Nitrous Oxide

If your child needs a little help to relax and to still communicate freely, West Mobile Children’s Dentistry may recommend nitrous oxide, which is also known as laughing gas. Our hope is that the laughing gas allows your child to remain calm, relaxed, and even cheerful. This is a good solution for children who are afraid of the dentist, and also for children with a strong gag reflex. Nitrous oxide is safe and effective when properly administered by a qualified medical professional. It is delivered by a mask worn over the nose, in a mixture with oxygen. Your child will receive a dose appropriate to their size and weight.  Nitrous oxide will leave their body quickly after the flow is turned off, and the effects will wear off within minutes.

IV Sedation- Coming Soon

For more extensive dental treatment, and for children who are unable to tolerate treatment with Nitrous Oxide alone, West Mobile Children’s Dentistry most likely will recommend IV sedation. IV sedation allows your child to sleep through their dental work. If your child will benefit from IV sedation, West Mobile Children’s Dentistry will work with you to schedule an appointment.

Your Child’s Dental Health is Paramount

At West Mobile Children’s Dentistry, we understand how important it is to keep children’s mouths healthy and we will teach both you and them the habits that will preserve their teeth for a lifetime. We are proud to offer the best in children’s dental care!