Pediatric Sedation DentistryIn Manhattan Beach
What is Sedation Dentistry?
At Toothlings Pediatric Dentistry, we understand that some children need extra help feeling comfortable during dental visits. Dental sedation provides a safe, effective way to help anxious or fearful children receive the dental care they need. Dr. Grant has extensive training and experience in pediatric sedation, and will work closely with your family to determine the most appropriate sedation option for your child's unique needs.
The Benefits of Sedation Dentistry
Reduced Anxiety
Sedation helps children feel calm and relaxed during their dental visit, making the experience more positive and setting the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health.
Improved Cooperation
For children who have difficulty sitting still or following instructions, sedation allows them to receive necessary treatment safely and comfortably.
Better Treatment Outcomes
When children are relaxed and comfortable, your pediatric dentist in Manhattan Beach can work more efficiently and effectively, ensuring the best possible results from their dental treatment.
How We Can Help
At Toothlings, your child's comfort and oral health are our top priorities. Dr. Grant and our team are dedicated to providing the prompt, compassionate emergency care your family deserves.
Nitrous oxide is a mild, safe form of sedation that helps children feel relaxed and at ease during their treatment. This sweet-smelling gas is mixed with oxygen and administered through a small nose mask. The effects wear off quickly after treatment, allowing your child to return to normal activities immediately.
Benefits of nitrous oxide:
- Quick onset and recovery
- Conscious and able to respond during treatment
- No lingering after-effects
- Ideal for mild to moderate anxiety
For children who need extensive treatment, have special healthcare needs, or experience severe anxiety, general anesthesia may be recommended. Under general anesthesia, your child will be completely asleep and comfortable during their dental procedure. Dr. Grant works with highly qualified anesthesiologists to ensure your child's safety throughout the process.
Benefits of general anesthesia:
- Complete comfort during treatment
- No memory of the procedure
- Ideal for complex treatments
- Perfect for children with special needs or severe anxiety
Stay Calm
We know dental emergencies can be frightening, but try to stay calm. Take a deep breath and assess your child's condition. Comforting your child can help them feel safer and more relaxed.
Perform First Aid
Gently clean any injured areas with warm water. Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and alleviate pain. If there's bleeding, apply firm pressure with a clean gauze or cloth.
Call Our Office
Give us a call right away, even if you're unsure whether the situation constitutes an emergency. Our team will asses your child's symptoms and provide guidance on the next steps to take. We'll do our best to see your child as soon as possible, often the same day. If it's after hours, follow the prompts to reach Dr. Grant.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, when used in combination with local anesthetic, your child will be completely comfortable throughout their treatment. With nitrous oxide, they'll feel relaxed but aware, while under general anesthesia, they'll be fully asleep and pain-free.
The effects of nitrous oxide wear off within minutes of removing the mask. For general anesthesia, your child will need time to recover under our supervision, and we'll provide detailed post-operative care instructions.
We'll provide detailed instructions before your child's appointment, including guidelines about eating and drinking. For general anesthesia, we'll conduct a thorough pre-operative evaluation and discuss any concerns you may have.
Yes, sedation dentistry is safe when administered by qualified professionals like Dr. Grant. We carefully screen each patient, follow strict safety protocols, and use advanced monitoring equipment throughout the procedure.