Sedation Dentistry for Children | Dentist in Kennebunk, ME

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Some children can be extremely apprehensive and anxious about a dentist visit. The dentists and team members at Kennebunk Center for Dentistry have insightful understanding and additional training in working with children who are fearful to help them feel more in control and less anxious. Our goal is to allow children to have great experiences with us so that they begin to view the dentist and dental care as an easy and enjoyable part of being healthy. Please contact us at 207-985-7944 to learn more about how sedation dentistry for children in Kennebunk, Maine, can help your child and schedule your child’s appointment with our dental professionals.

When you child visits our office for sedation dentistry, we will begin by spending time getting to know your child so that they are cared for in a way that’s individual to their particular personality and needs. As we discover ways to help, we’ll discuss any options for their care and treatment with you. Our dental sedation option for children is inhalation sedation (nitrous oxide or “laughing gas”).

Nitrous oxide or “laughing gas” is the most common method of sedation for children that dentists use. A small inhaler mask is placed over your child’s nose to administer a mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide. The ratio of oxygen to nitrous is precisely adjusted and monitored throughout the procedure so that your child becomes relaxed and comfortable within minutes. They will not be asleep and will be able to respond to the dentist or hygienist during the procedure. Your child will be aware of the treatment but warmly relaxed.

Inhalation sedation is a good option for children with mild to moderate levels of dental anxiety. It also reduces or eliminates gagging in children who have an extreme gag reflex. There is no recovery time, since the effects of the gas go away as soon as it’s turned off.

If you have any questions about dental sedation for children, or to make an appointment with our dentists, please call our office today. We are here to help!