Sedation Dentistry for Kids

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

Laughing gas is the most common type of sedation that we offer to children. It is gentle, safe, and quickly reversible. Dr. Hu may recommend nitrous oxide if your child needs a filling or two, or even a crown. Most kids feel a little giggly or sleepy, helping them feel more lighthearted about their time in our office.

Oral Conscious Sedation

This medication is taken by mouth about an hour prior to your child’s planned procedure. Usually, it is a flavored liquid that they drink out of a small medicine cup. The sedation lasts for a few hours, giving Dr. Hu ample time to complete the treatment your child requires.

IV Sedation/General Anesthesia

Occasionally, deeper levels of sedation or anesthesia are necessary. Such as when a child has special needs or requires multiple pulp and crown treatments. These visits can be completed inside of a specialist practice—like our Glendora pediatric dental office—or in a hospital, with additional medical staff on site.

Recovering After a Sedation Appointment

Lighter types of pediatric sedation like laughing gas are quickly reversible, with practically no grogginess after the appointment.

Deeper sedatives like oral or IV sedation can cause your child to feel foggy or sleepy for at least a few hours. Although they will be able to communicate and respond to instructions, it’s best to watch them closely and have them rest while the medications completely wear off.

Regardless of which type of sedation your child needs, Dr. Hu will still want to numb the affected teeth with local anesthetic, so make sure your child does not accidentally bite, chew, or suck on their lip and cheek.

Pediatric Sedation Dentist

Dr. Hu is a pediatric dental expert providing various levels of sedation at our office. If your child isn’t able to receive the care they need, sedation dentistry may be your family’s best solution.

Contact our Glendora office today to reserve a consultation.