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Sedation Dentistry in Saginaw, TX

Keep Your Child Comfortable at the Dentist

We understand that visiting the dentist can be a challenge for kids of all ages, from young kids to pre-teens and even teenagers.

We offer all sedation options so your child can relax in the dental chair and receive the care they need without feeling anxious or uncomfortable. Together, we can choose the one that's right for you and your child.

When to Consider Sedation

Dr. Christina and Dr. Elias have attained specialized, board certified training in pediatric sedation dentistry. We pride ourselves to always keep your child safe and comfortable at each visit. We are happy to sit down with you to consider all your options and determine if sedation is the right choice for your child. There are a variety of reasons that you may want to consider sedation including: 

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Fear Of Needles

Many kids are afraid of needles, especially oral numbing needles. Sedation helps manage this fear and keeps your little one comfortable during the numbing process.

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Dental Anxiety

Another benefit of sedation dentistry is that by allowing your child to have a relaxing treatment, they are less likely to have a continuing fear of the dentist. Each subsequent visit should be less stressful because they don’t carry negative memories of the dentist chair.

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Strong Gag Reflex

In addition, your child will be much more comfortable while they work inside their mouth with the gag reflex suppressed.

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Low Pain Tolerance

For children with sensory issues or a low pain tolerance, sedation may be a great option. It will help keep them comfortable and feeling confident throughout their treatment, no matter what brings you in.

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Is Sedation Safe?

Yes. Dr. Christina and Dr. Elias are board-certified pediatric dentists who have extensive training in sedation dentistry. We use well-regarded medications that are commonly used by pediatric dentists worldwide and have a minimal risk of side effects.In addition to this, we will meet with you and your child to discuss their any health challenges, medications they’re taking, and other pertinent health details.

We will also ask about your preferences for sedation, and which method you think may be right for your child. Together, we will collaborate to choose the best option for your child’s needs. If you have any concerns before your child’s appointment, please get in touch with us to discuss them. We will provide you with the answers you need.

Sedation Options At Our Office

Nitrous Oxide
(laughing gas)

Nitrous oxide uses a nose mask that helps keep your child comfortable during their treatment. This option is best for children with minimal anxiety. It delivers a mixture of nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oxygen, which will help your child feel less aware of what’s happening around them. It also helps with pain and discomfort.

Oral Conscious Sedation

With oral conscious sedation, we will give your child a liquid “juice” about an hour before their treatment. This sedative will make them feel more relaxed, and most children fall asleep during their treatment. Children will still be able to respond to commands. This type of sedation is preferable for children with moderate anxiety.

General Anesthesia

At Saginaw Kids Dentistry, we have a certified dental anesthesiologist come to our office to safely put your child to sleep. Dr. Christina or Dr. Elias may recommend general anesthesia for children with special health care needs, severe dental anxiety, or significant treatment needs. Dr. Christina and Dr. Elias will discuss if this option is right for your child.

Hospital Dentistry

Along with our in-house sedation options, we are also credentialed with general anesthesia privileges at Cook Children's Medical Center. Hospital dentistry ensures your child will be completely asleep throughout their entire procedure, making sure your child does not experience any discomfort.

Comfortable, Safe Care

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We always take every step we can to keep your child comfortable during their treatment.

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At Saginaw Kids Dentistry, your child's comfort is our top priority. That's why we offer many sedation options at our office, including laughing gas (nitrous oxide), oral sedation, and general anesthesia.

How Do I Prepare My Child for Sedation?

This depends on the type of sedation that your child undergoes. For nitrous oxide (laughing gas), you will not need to do anything special. However, our dentists recommend that your child avoids eating a heavy meal for about 2 hours prior to their appointment. This minimizes the risk of nausea and vomiting after their treatment.

For oral conscious sedation and general anesthesia, you will need to take some special steps to prepare your child. Their dentist will give you more information about this process. Typically, this involves fasting (avoiding eating or drinking) for at least 8 hours before the procedure. Your child can usually drink water until 2 hours before their procedure, but this may vary. It is crucial to follow all your doctor’s instructions.

Please plan to take the entire day off on the day of your child’s sedation appointment unless they are getting nitrous oxide sedation. This is so you can help your child rest and recover.

What Can I Expect After Sedation?

Your child can get back to their routine right away if they undergo nitrous oxide sedation. Before Dr. Elias or Dr. Christina removes the nose mask, they will send oxygen through the mask to flush out any of the nitrous oxide gas that remains. This will minimize any side effects.

Oral conscious sedation and general anesthesia have after effects that fade within 4-6 hours. You will need to supervise your child for the remainder of the day after the procedure is over. Please allow your child to rest for the remainder of the day and encourage a good night’s sleep. Help them avoid any type of strenuous activity and make sure they drink plenty of fluids. They should be able to resume normal daily activities the next day.

For more information about what to expect as your child recovers, please consult with Dr. Christina or Dr. Elias.

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What is Laughing Gas Sedation?

This type of sedation uses a comfortable nose mask to pump a mixture of laughing gas (nitrous oxide) into your child’s lungs during their treatment. Dr. Elias and Dr. Christina are experts in nitrous oxide sedation in Saginaw, TX.

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Why Choose Laughing Gas?

Laughing gas requires no pills, and helps your child feel safe and comfortable without any long-lasting side effects. It wears off after just about 5 minutes, so your child can get back to their day-to-day routine or even go back to school after their appointment. It’s also the most affordable sedation option, in most cases.

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation uses a pill-based or liquid sedative to keep your child feeling safe and comfortable. Here is what you can expect from its effects.

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Grogginess And Sleepiness

Your child will feel very sleepy and tired, and will probably fall asleep. However, they can be roused and respond to commands if necessary. They will not be unconscious.

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Anterograde Amnesia

Most kids forget most or all of what happens during their treatment. This is a good thing, since it ensures they won’t have any scary or negative memories of their experience.

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After-Effects

The after-effects of oral sedation usually last at least 4-6 hours, but can persist for a longer period of time. Your child may be confused, groggy, nauseated, or dizzy. You’ll need to keep a close eye on them as they recover from their treatment.

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IV sedation

IV Sedation

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IV Sedation uses the same drugs as oral sedation. However, they are administered into your child’s veins using an IV, which means the drugs go right into their bloodstream. This provides a deeper and more predictable level of sedation, which may be preferred in some situations. Dr. Christina and Dr. Elias can help you choose the right treatment for your little one.

Schedule An Appointment Today

Our team can help anxious kids get the expert care they need.