Dental Sedation
Sedation Dentistry at Smile Buddy (Seton, Calgary South & Beaumont, Edmonton South)
At Smile Buddy, we understand that many children feel anxious about visiting the dentist. This anxiety can sometimes stop them from getting the care they need. To help, we offer sedation options to make every visit stress-free and comfortable. Whether your child is nervous or needs a lot of dental work, we are here to ensure a smooth and worry-free experience.
Helping Your Child Feel Calm at the Dentist
It’s normal for children to be afraid of the dentist. But this shouldn’t stop them from getting important dental care. At Smile Buddy, we’ve created a friendly and relaxing environment. We offer sedation dentistry to reduce anxiety and discomfort, helping your child stay calm while keeping their smile healthy.
Our Sedation Options
Local Anesthesia (Freezing)
We use local anesthesia for procedures that involve deeper decay or more treatment. Local anesthesia, also known as “freezing,” numbs a specific area to keep your child comfortable. This option prevents pain and helps children feel relaxed during their visit.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is a safe and mild sedative that helps children relax. Your child breathes it in through a mask, and it works almost immediately. Laughing gas is perfect for children who feel anxious in the dental chair. It wears off quickly, so your child can get back to normal activities soon after their appointment.
General Anesthesia
For children with severe anxiety or those needing a lot of dental work, we offer general anesthesia. This allows your child to sleep through the entire procedure. Pediatric anesthesiologists from the Alberta Children’s Hospital manage this sedation, ensuring your child’s safety. General anesthesia is ideal for patients who need multiple procedures or have special needs.
Why Sedation Dentistry is a Good Choice for Your Child
Sedation dentistry helps even the most anxious children get the dental care they need in a comfortable environment. Here’s why sedation might be the right option:
- Reduces Fear and Anxiety: Sedation helps calm children so they can have their treatment without fear or stress.
- Manages Pain: Anesthesia or sedation reduces pain during procedures, making the experience easier for your child.
- Fewer Appointments: Sedation allows us to complete more work in one visit, so your child needs fewer trips to the dentist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens After Sedation?
With nitrous oxide or local anesthesia, most children can return to their normal activities right away. After general anesthesia, we recommend that your child rest for the rest of the day. In some cases, you may need to arrange a ride to and from the appointment if general anesthesia is used.
Will My Child Need Someone to Accompany Them?
If your child receives general anesthesia or IV sedation, they will need someone to take them home. For laughing gas, your child can usually resume normal activities right after the appointment.
Who Should Consider Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is great for children with dental anxiety, special needs, or those needing complex treatments. It’s also useful for children who have trouble sitting still for long periods.
Safety and Professional Care
At Smile Buddy, safety is our top priority. All sedation, including general anesthesia, is overseen by trained professionals. Pediatric anesthesiologists ensure your child is safe and comfortable throughout the process. We customize sedation for each child to provide the best care possible.
At Smile Buddy, we are committed to creating positive dental experiences for every child. Whether your child needs a simple filling or more complex treatment, we are here to provide safe, high-quality care. Don’t let anxiety stop your child from having a healthy smile. Let us make their next visit relaxed and easy.
Contact us today to discuss which sedation option is best for your child and book an appointment at our Seton (Calgary South) or Beaumont (Edmonton South) locations.