SEDATION DENTIST FOR KIDS LAKE ST. LOUIS
Creating Positive Experiences for Anxious & Scared Children
If your child is scared of the dentist, they’re not alone! In fact, millions of adults suffer from dental phobia and anxiety, too. Our team at Sunny Shore Pediatric Dentistry of Lake Saint Louis will do our utmost to create a calm, comfortable, and positive atmosphere for them at the office, allowing them to get curious about their oral health, ask questions, and engage with our team. However, we understand that sometimes, anxiety and fear may override our ability to help them feel at-ease. In these cases, we offer safe sedation dentistry for kids in Lake St. Louis. Call our team today to learn more about these services.
Why Choose Sunny Shore Pediatric Dentistry of Lake Saint Louis for Children’s Sedation Dentistry?
- We Welcome Parents in Treatment Rooms
- Experienced Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist
- Caring, Compassionate & Knowledgeable Team
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide is a fast-acting method of dental sedation that our team administers while your child is in the treatment chair. We’ll secure a small nose mask on them that will allow them to breathe in a colorless, odorless mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen, helping calm any nerves they may feel. After their service is complete, we will have them breathe in only oxygen, helping to flush the effects of the laughing gas from their system.
Sedation Dentistry FAQs
Is sedation dentistry safe for kids?
Yes; nitrous oxide sedation in particular is known for being extremely mild. Most children are able to receive it without feeling sick or nauseous – and if your child has a sensitive stomach, your sedation dentist in Lake St. Louis can prescribe an anti-nausea medication for them to take beforehand.
Rest assured, our team takes safety during dental sedation very seriously. We’ll monitor your child closely throughout their treatment. You also may be reassured to know that nitrous oxide machines have several safety features, including sensors that will automatically shut off the gas if they detect too much nitrous. If you’d like to know more about our machine or how the process works, please don’t hesitate to contact us and ask!
What does it feel like to be sedated with nitrous oxide?
Many patients report feeling “light” or “floaty.” Some experience a slight tingling in their arms or legs, and others get a bit giggly (hence the nickname “laughing gas”!). Ultimately, nitrous oxide will help your child feel more relaxed and at ease – possibly even a little euphoric. Uncomfortable stimulus like pain, loud noises, and harsh lights will be dulled as well, which is great for kids with sensory sensitivities.
Is sedation dentistry covered by insurance?
Unfortunately, most dental insurance policies classify dental sedation as “not medically necessary” and therefore don’t typically provide coverage. There are exceptions, though. If your child has a documented mental or physical disability (such as cerebral palsy, Parkinson’s, or autism) that makes it extremely difficult for them to receive dental care without sedation, nitrous oxide could very well be considered “medically necessary.”
We handle a lot of different dental insurance plans on the regular, so if you’re not sure what your benefits will and won’t cover, let us know. We’ll be happy to confirm your coverage and help you save as much money as possible!
Is sedation dentistry worth it?
Yes, especially for anxious children. Going to the dentist can be scary at a young age, and kids sometimes develop negative associations with the dental office that causes them to avoid making appointments later in life. Solutions like nitrous oxide can help them have a much more positive experience and encourage them to take good care of their teeth!
How long does nitrous oxide last?
Nitrous oxide sedation is mild enough that the effects wear off as quickly as they start. Within minutes of shutting off the gas, your child should be “back to normal.” That said, you may still want to keep a close eye on your kid just to be safe!