Conscious/Oral Sedation Dentistry

At Kids Rock Dentistry and Orthodontics, we understand that some children may feel anxious or have difficulty completing dental procedures using only laughing gas (nitrous oxide). For these cases, our skilled pediatric dentists may recommend conscious oral sedation to ensure your child’s comfort and cooperation during treatment. This safe and effective method allows us to provide necessary dental care while minimizing stress for both the child and their family.

What Is Oral Sedation Dentistry?

Oral sedation involves administering a combination of medications to help your child feel calm, relaxed, and drowsy during their dental procedure. Unlike general anesthesia, your child will remain conscious and responsive, but they will feel less anxious and may not remember much of the procedure afterward. Oral sedation is an excellent option for children who:

• Experience dental anxiety or fear.
• Are too young to cooperate during complex procedures.
• Have special needs requiring additional support.
• Need extensive dental work in a single visit.

How Oral Sedation Works

Before scheduling an oral sedation appointment, a consultation or evaluation is required to determine if your child is a suitable candidate. During this process, our dentist in Colorado Springs, CO will:

• Review Medical History: Your child’s health record will be carefully assessed to ensure there are no contraindications to sedation. A health and physical exam within six months of the appointment is required.
• Discuss the Procedure: We will explain the sedation process in detail, including the medications used and what to expect during and after the appointment.

On the day of the procedure, your child will drink a carefully measured mixture of three medications:

• Demerol (Meperidine): A narcotic pain reliever to manage discomfort.
• Versed (Midazolam): A benzodiazepine to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
• Hydroxyzine: An antihistamine with calming and sedative effects.

Once the medication takes effect, your child will feel drowsy and relaxed. They will remain monitored throughout the entire appointment by our experienced team, ensuring their safety and comfort at every stage.

Benefits of Oral Sedation

Oral sedation offers several advantages, including:

• Reduced Anxiety: Helps children feel calm and secure during dental procedures.
• Improved Cooperation: Makes it easier for the dentist to perform necessary treatments without interruptions.
• Time-Efficient Care: Allows multiple procedures to be completed in one visit.
• Minimized Memory: Many children have little to no recollection of the procedure, making future visits less intimidating.

Preparing for an Oral Sedation Appointment

To ensure the safety and success of your child’s sedation experience, it’s important to follow these guidelines:

• Fasting: Your child should not eat or drink for a specified period before the appointment, as directed by our team.
• Comfortable Clothing: Dress your child in loose, comfortable clothing to facilitate monitoring and ease of movement.
• Transportation: Your child will need to be transported home by a responsible adult after the procedure, as they may still feel drowsy for a few hours.

Monitoring and Safety

Your child’s safety is our top priority. During the procedure, our team will:

• Monitor your child’s heart rate, oxygen levels, and overall condition.
• Adjust the treatment plan as needed to ensure comfort and success.
• Provide immediate care in the unlikely event of an adverse reaction.

Post-Procedure Care

After the appointment, your child may feel sleepy or slightly uncoordinated for several hours. It’s important to:

• Allow them to rest at home under supervision.
• Offer soft, easy-to-eat foods and plenty of fluids.
• Avoid strenuous activities until the effects of sedation have completely worn off.

Our team will provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and will be available to answer any questions or concerns. Contact us to learn more.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you believe oral sedation may be the right option for your child, contact Kids Rock Dentistry and Orthodontics to schedule a consultation. Our team is here to answer your questions, discuss your child’s needs, and provide the highest level of care in a warm and welcoming environment. Let us help your child achieve a healthy, confident smile while ensuring their comfort every step of the way!