Sedation for Kids
Pearl City, HI
Sedation for Kids provided by Our Expert Pediatric Dentists in Pearl City, HI at Oahu Pediatric Dentistry

One of the options that parents can consider is sedation. This is ideal for children extremely anxious about their dental work, for children who have trouble sitting still for extended periods, or children with special needs. Essentially, the child is given medication that calms the nerves and relaxes them. Sedation is different from full anesthesia. When sedated, the child is still awake and at no point loses consciousness, as opposed to full anesthesia in which a sleep-like state is induced. The sedation remedy for children nervous about visiting the dentist is safe, effective, and widely practiced in modern clinics like ours.
The profession of sedation is known as “anesthesiology,” and the practitioner is called an “anesthesiologist.” These are fully educated, trained professionals whose sole expertise is safely sedating patients.
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Types of Sedation for Kids
There are several ways to sedate children. The most popular means is with nitrous oxide (NO), known colloquially as “laughing gas.” Our experts fit a mask over the patient’s nose and mouth, and then administer the drug as a gas which is inhaled into the lungs. The medication takes about five minutes to achieve its effect, leaving the child relaxed and peaceful.
Another option is a medication that the child takes orally. Examples include Demerol and Valium. Results with these medications take a bit longer than NO to achieve, but their effects last longer.
A third way to sedate a patient is with an intravenous (IV) injection of medication. An IV injection is the heaviest form of sedation, rendering a relatively deep state of relaxation. This might be the best option for children who are extremely anxious about visiting the dentist.
Preparing for Sedation
Understandably, many parents are concerned about sedating their children. We always meet with parents before their child undergoing any type of sedation to explain the procedure and ease any worries about what to expect.
First, it is important to remember that sedation is incredibly safe when practiced responsibly. Millions of patients around the world are successfully sedated each year and very few experiences any negative consequences.
Your anesthesiologist will advise you on specific ways to prepare depending on your child’s medical history and the type of sedation. For example, eating restrictions may be imposed for the evening and day before treatment.
FAQs
What is the sedation process for kids?
The sedation process for children depends on the type of sedation used. For mild sedation, such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas), the child inhales the gas through a mask, helping them stay calm and relaxed. For moderate sedation, an oral sedative may be given before the procedure. Deep sedation or general anesthesia may be administered intravenously (IV) or through inhalation under the supervision of a trained anesthesiologist. Throughout the procedure, the child’s vital signs are carefully monitored to ensure safety.
What are the risks of sedation in children?
While sedation for children is generally safe when administered by trained professionals, there are some risks, including drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, allergic reactions, or, in rare cases, breathing difficulties. The level of risk depends on the child’s health, the type of sedation used, and how their body responds. Parents should discuss any medical conditions or concerns with the dentist before the procedure.
What is the safest form of sedation for children?
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is considered the safest form of sedation for children. It is a mild sedative that helps reduce anxiety while allowing the child to remain awake and responsive. The effects wear off quickly once the gas supply is stopped, making it a preferred choice for many pediatric dental procedures. However, the best sedation option depends on the child’s needs and the complexity of the procedure.