Sedation Dentistry

Helping children conquer dental fears and phobias in Richland, WA

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Visiting the dentist shouldn’t be stressful!

Here at Smile Surfers, we strive to make your little surfer’s dental visits a walk on the beach using positive behavior techniques, creating a fun environment, and more.

However, we understand some children don’t tolerate dental treatment well and need more assistance, which is why we offer sedation dentistry.

Sedation aims to help your kiddo feel calm and comfortable during their visit. It may be suitable for your child if they have:

  • Severe dental anxiety 
  • Trouble sitting still
  • Special needs
  • Multiple treatments
  •  

Contact us to see if sedation dentistry is suitable for your little surfer.

Dive in With Confidence

Sedation dentistry can help your little surfer in many ways!

Overcome Fears

Sedation dentistry helps your child build trust with the dentist and dental treatments, which can ultimately help them overcome barriers and establish life-long healthy dental habits.

Relax

Sedation should put your child in a state of relaxation, allowing them to sit through the appointment without concern for the tasks at hand.

Complete Treatment

If your kiddo struggles with dental treatments, this option may allow our pediatric dentists to complete more treatments in one go and minimize the need for additional appointments.

We'll help you choose the best option for your child.

Types of Sedation Dentistry

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, offers a mild level of sedation.

Your child will inhale it through a nosepiece, helping them feel calm during their procedure. The dentist can adjust the level of sedation to match your child’s comfort level.

With nitrous oxide, your child will remain awake and be able to communicate or respond to the dentist’s instructions.

Oral Conscious Sedation

This type offers a mild to moderate sedation level.

Oral conscious sedation helps your child feel very relaxed and able to sit still through their appointment. They may also feel drowsy and even fall asleep, but the sedative itself won’t make them unconscious. We’ll closely monitor them throughout the appointment to ensure their safety. Afterward, they’ll have little memory of the appointment.

General Anesthesia

General anesthesia is a strong sedative that an anesthesiologist administers in the office. It may be recommended for your child depending on:

  • Their needs
  • The extent of the
  • procedures
  • The type of work they need
  • Their age

 

Your child will be closely monitored throughout the visit to ensure their safety. Afterward, they’ll have no memory of the procedure.

Making Your Visit More Enjoyable!

FAQs About Sedation Dentistry

Check out the answers below!

Which sedation option is right for my child?

It depends on your child’s needs, the type or number of procedures needed, etc.

If you think your child could benefit from dental sedation, contact us for a recommendation.

Is sedation dentistry safe?

Yes, each type of sedation is safe. We’ll closely monitor your child every step of the way and adapt to their comfort levels.

We strictly follow the protocols from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry for sedating children. Your child’s safety is our absolute priority.

How much does sedation dentistry cost?

The cost varies based on the type of sedative used, the procedure(s), and insurance coverage.

To receive a quote and discuss payment options, please contact your nearest Smile Surfers.

How long do the effects of nitrous oxide last?

Once the procedure is done, we’ll turn off the laughing gas, and the effects will immediately begin to wear off. On average, it takes only a few minutes, however, it can last up to 30 minutes.


Your child should be able to go to school after their appointment.

Dental Visits Made Easier

Contact us if you believe that your child could benefit from sedation dentistry.