Sedation Dentistry in Andover & Lawrence, MA
General Anesthesia for Dental Office Visits
Sedation dentistry in the form of general anesthesia may be indicated for children with extensive dental care needs who are extremely uncooperative, fearful, or anxious or for the very young who do not understand how to cope in a cooperative manner. General anesthesia also can be useful for children requiring significant surgical procedures, restorative dental treatments, or patients who may have general anxiety or special health care needs.
Nitrous Oxide for Pediatric Dental Care Services
Nitrous oxide sedation, sometimes referred to as “laughing gas,” is an effective and safe sedation agent that is inhaled through a mask that fits over your nose to help you relax during dental procedures. Mixed with oxygen, nitrous oxide allows you to breathe normally through your nose, and within minutes you should start to feel the effects. You may feel light-headed or a tingling in your arms and legs. Some patients comment that their legs and arms feel heavy under this type of sedation dentistry. Ultimately, you should feel comfortable and calm after pediatric dentistry services. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off quickly after the small mask is removed.
We also offer other sedation options for pediatric dental services, please talk to the doctor about which sedation dentistry options are best for your child. In addition to nitrous oxide, we provide oral sedation and oral conscious sedation options to ensure your child’s comfort during treatment. These other options include dental health treatment inside or outside of the office in order to accommodate patients with needs for IV sedation requiring the use of an anesthesiologist during dental work.
Contact our dentist office to learn more about our pediatric dental services and to schedule an appointment for dental care in Andover or Lawrence at 978-296-4964 or 978-682-3342.