Safe Sedation Dentistry for Children in Charlottesville VA

Call (434) 817-1817 to schedule an appointment for your child.

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At Children’s Dentistry of Charlottesville, our dentists use conscious sedation dentistry to help children receive the dental care they need, comfortably. For patients with dental anxiety, this can help them develop a healthy relationship with their oral health for the rest of their lives.

Conscious sedation dentistry for children is medicine taken by mouth at the dental office prior to dental treatment. After consuming, your child will become very drowsy or even fall into a light sleep. They will still be able to interact with their dentist, but should feel relaxed enough to have reduced anxiety during their appointment.

“This dentist office is truly a blessing if your child has had bad precious experiences with the dentist or just a fear in general. My 5 year old had a terrifying experience at a younger age and I took her here yesterday and they where so awesome with her. The dental assistants are so outgoing and go above and beyond with the patients. This will forever be our new dentist.”

— Heather M.

Sedation dentistry for children can mean the difference between optimal oral health and not going to the dentist.

If your child experiences dental anxiety, sedation dentistry may help them feel comfortable in the dentist’s chair while receiving the care they need. Contact us to learn more about sedation dentistry for children.

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How does conscious sedation dentistry work?

Is conscious sedation dentistry right for your child?

Our dentists always make treatment recommendations based on your child’s specific needs. We may recommend conscious sedation dentistry for your child if they:

  • Aren’t able to undergo dental procedures, exams, or treatments even with the aid of laughing gas
  • Experience dental anxiety so severe that other methods of calming and relaxation fail
  • Have a medical condition that necessitates sedation during dental work
  • Are too young to wear a laughing gas mask or to follow a dentist’s instructions

Remember, every child is different. Your child’s dentist will make a recommendation based on their experience and your child’s best interests.

Other sedation dentistry options

General Anesthesia

This treatment offers a state of closely monitored unconsciousness. We have the capability to offer this right in our office with licensed and experienced staff.

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IV Sedation

Generally considered a middle ground between conscious sedation and general anesthesia. Also offers a quicker recovery time for teenage patients receiving relatively minor treatments.

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Nitrous Oxide

This option will keep your child fully awake and alert. Also known as laughing gas, this is a fast and effective option for children who just need to calm their nerves during treatment.

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We Accept Most Insurance & Medicaid

We believe every child should have access to the best dental care possible. We proudly accept Medicaid and many other insurance plans, including those from:

  • Anthem
  • Metlife
  • Guardian
  • United Concordia
  • Delta Dental
  • Cigna

Meet Our Doctors & Staff

Our restorative dentists are compassionate, caring, gentle, empathetic, and sensitive to the needs of every child.

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Call (434) 817-1817 to Schedule Your Appointment

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Sedation Dentistry FAQ

Is sedation dentistry for children safe?

Yes! Our dentists complete extensive training that prepares them to safely administer conscious sedation in our office. Ask your dentist for more information about their education and qualifications.

Is sedation dentistry recommended for children affected by autism or other special needs?

As always, our dentists will make their recommendation based on your child’s unique situation. Conscious sedation may help children affected by autism receive dental care with reduced anxiety, however these patients often need a deeper level of sedation than conscious sedation can provide.

Will my child always need sedation dentistry?

Depending on your child’s medical and dental needs, sedation dentistry may be required for some or all of their treatments.

We strive to provide a relaxing, calming atmosphere to help children overcome their dental anxiety. Unless medically necessary, we generally recommend that by the age of 10, most children undergo dental exams and minor procedures without the use of sedation dentistry for children.

That said, if your child (no matter their age) needs sedation to help them tolerate the dental treatment they need, we can help.

What do I need to do before and after my child’s appointment?

Your child’s dentist will provide a full list of pre-operative and post care-operative instructions, which include:

  • Discuss your child’s full medical history with the dentist prior to their sedation appointment
  • Bringing a list of any medications your child is taking (prescription and non-prescription)
  • Notify us of any acute change in your child’s health (such as developing a cold or flu)
  • Avoiding food and drink a few hours before and after your child’s appointment
  • Wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to assist in the application of patient monitors
  • Watching for nausea, extreme drowsiness or other side effects after your child’s treatment

How long does conscious sedation last?

Your child will likely be drowsy for a few hours after their treatment. It is important that you do not leave them unassisted during this period. We will keep your child at the office for some time after their appointment to assure that they are alert and responsive and able to demonstrate the ability to protect their own airway.

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Children’s Dentistry of Charlottesville

Address: 1470 Pantops Mountain Pl Ste 1 Charlottesville, VA 22911 (Click for Directions)

Hours: Mon-Thur: 8AM-5PM | Fri: 8AM-4PM

Phone: (434) 260-6836

Fax: (434) 817-1819

Email: email@childrensdentistryofcharlottesville.com