FAQs on Sedation Dentistry

Would you like your child to experience pediatric dental care at its best? Then, come to South Miami Pediatric Dental Associates where Dr. Sedation Dentistry ProcedureMario Martinez and Dr. Rebecca Lenard provide caring, knowledgeable services to the youngest of patients. For kids who are nervous about dental visits or who need complex procedures, this South Miami, FL, practice offers sedation dentistry for maximum comfort.

FAQs about Sedation Dentistry

What is Sedation Dentistry? For both children and adults, sedation dentistry involves administration of medications which eliminate pain and provide relaxation. This service helps the anxious patient get through fillings, extractions, and even cleanings, if need be, says the American Society of Dentist Anesthetists.

What kinds of Sedation does Dr. Martinez and Dr. Lenard offer in South Miami, FL? They offer local and topical anesthetics, inhaled medication (nitrous oxide, or laughing gas), oral sedation (tranquilizers in pill form), and IV sedation. For very complicated smile reconstructions, they deliver in-hospital anesthesia which allows a child to sleep through their treatments.

Nitrous Oxide seems like an Old-style Sedation. How does it work? Yes, nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, has been used for generations to relax patients and as an adjunct to IV sedation. It confers a euphoric feeling as it is administered by facial mask. The effects wear off quickly once it is turned off.

What is General Anesthesia? This anesthesia is used in the hospital and is given by an anesthesiologist. It helps children get through complex treatments or children who have such a negative reaction to medical and dental treatments that they need medication to stay comfortable and safe.

My Child is so Nervous before a Dental Appointment that it almost seems that they have a Phobia. Is this possible? Many patients, adults included, are very fearful of going to the dentist. Perhaps the person has a sensitive gag reflex, trouble sitting still in the dental chair, or a bad medical or dental experience in another facility. With special needs children, the extra and unfamiliar stimuli in a dental office seems intolerable. So, yes, the fear is real, and it can be extreme. However, sedation definitely helps.

What kind of Sedation is Right for my Child? Your board-certified pediatric dentist will review your child's care plan with you, including choices for sedation services as needed. Also, Dr. Martinez and Dr. Lenard will help you prepare for your child's appointment and outline what to expect afterwards.

Find Out More

Your child's oral health is one of their most valuable assets, and at South Miami Pediatric Dental Associates in South Miami, FL, we can help you protect it for life. If you have questions about sedation dentistry or any other service we offer, please contact us at (305) 666-2068.