CONSCIOUS SEDATION

The behavior management of the infant, young preschooler, uncooperative patient or midly anxious patient is accomplished best with sedative medications.

It should be noted that this type of sedation does not render the patient unconscious. Therefore, the child has the ability to breathe, cough,cry and exhibit the normal protective reflexes. Sedation that we administer should not be confused with general anesthesia.

We offer three levels of sedation for our patients. All three levels are conscious sedation techniques.

Level I-nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation sedation (also called laughing gas, happy air, or sweet air). This type of sedation works best on midly anxious children who are potentialy cooperative and can follow verbal instructions. Level I sedation works best on children five years and older who are cooperative and have sat for a cleaning and x-rays.

Level II-oral or nasal versed sedation. Versed is a medication used to reduce anxiety. An immobilization device is utilized with this technique to prevent unwanted movement during treatment to protect the child. This type of sedation works best on children with minimal needs, i.e. one appointment.

Level III-IV sedation with a pediatric anesthesiologist. A physican comes to our office to administer the anesthesia. This type of sedation works best for children with extensive dental needs who require multiple dental visits and are too young or too anxious to cooperate. A consulation visit is done before this visit to review the sedation and dental treatment.

If your child needs dental treatment with conscious sedation, Dr. Matt and staff will recommend the best type of sedation for your child so we can deliver dental care in a safe and efficient manner.