Sedation Dentistry for Children in Virginia Beach

Some children are perfectly capable of undergoing dental procedures with only local anesthesia. However, there are many children, especially those who are very young, those who have dental anxiety, or those with special needs, who fear routine procedures. Some parents and caregivers also have anxiety about having dental procedures. Our dentists understand; they know sleep dentistry may be very beneficial. Naturally, your child's safety is our number one priority.

What Is the Average Sedation Dentistry Cost?

The sedation dentistry cost depends on the type of sedation used, with inhalation sedation being the most affordable option. Oral and IV sedation dentistry is more expensive, but it can cost you the same amount of money in the long-term if the dentist can perform several procedures at one time, eliminating the need for multiple appointments. Please call us if you're interested in sedation for dental treatment, and when you come in for an appointment, your dentist can quote the price after determining that your child is a good candidate.

When Is Sedation Dentistry for Younger Patients Appropriate?

Often, kid’s dental anxiety stems from anticipating that the procedure will hurt and involve scary instruments and sounds. It's no different from the anxiety adults feel. Your child can have a pain-free experience without anxiety. Children who have unpleasant experiences at a dental office become adults who avoid seeing a dentist until they have a serious problem. This is what we want to avoid with sedation dentistry for children.

Types of Sedation Dentistry for Children

We work closely with parents to decide on the best method to deal with kid’s dental anxiety. Your options may include:

Inhalation Dentistry - Nitrous oxide, AKA laughing gas, is an odorless gas that your child's dentist mixes with oxygen. Your child will wear a mask over their nose and they will feel relaxed and happy. It's considered very safe, with no lingering effects. Your child will remain fully awake, but won't remember much of the procedure.

Oral Sedation Dentistry - Your child will either take a pill or drink a liquid that will make them relaxed and sleepy. Your child will still be awake and able to respond to the dentist.

IV Sedation Dentistry - This is also known as twilight sleep dentistry. Your child will not be unconscious; they will still be able to open and close their mouth as requested, but it is unlikely they will remember anything.

Deep Sleep Dentistry - Sleep dentistry will put your child in a deep sleep. We only use it when necessary for lengthy and complex procedures.

How Can Dental Sedation Benefit Children?

Some kids have a strong gag reflex. Sedation dentistry for children will reduce your child's feeling of wanting to vomit or feel like they are choking. Your child will feel much more comfortable and your dentist can get done more quickly, reducing the amount of time your child will have to spend in the chair. Sedation will also allow your child's dentist to finish a complex procedure in one appointment, instead of having multiple appointments. For procedures that can take hours, your child will not realize how much time has passed.

Is There Such a Thing as Sedation Dentistry Insurance?

Unfortunately, many dental insurance companies and their plans do not cover sedation. There are exceptions, of course, and you should always check with your plan provider. Please call our office if you have questions or want to know more about how much sedation costs. Sedation may be covered whenever it is medically necessary.

How Long Will Sedation Affect My Child After a Procedure?

When your child has laughing gas, it wears off almost instantly as soon as the dentist switches to pure oxygen. Your child will be fine as soon as they leave the office and they can go about their daily activities. Oral sedation dentistry and IV sedation dentistry will leave your child sleepy and groggy for the rest of the day. You'll need to keep an eye on them. Your dentist will explain what to look for once you leave the office.

If you're interested in sedation dentistry for kids, please contact our office. We would be happy to answer your questions and set up an appointment.