Pediatric Sedation Dentistry in Huntington Beach and Pico Rivera, CA

Sedation dentistry is rising in popularity. Why? Many individuals—especially young children—simply fear the unknown, which is understandable. For those who dread going to the dentist, sedation dentistry can make the experience much more pleasant.

Dr. Shalini Shah and the experienced team at A Kids Dentist understand that a dental visit can seem especially scary to a little one. We are committed to helping children overcome their apprehension so they can achieve and maintain a healthy smile for life. Toward that end, we are pleased to offer pediatric sedation dentistry, which allows us to minimize our young patients’ anxiety and ultimately earn their trust.

Nitrous Oxide Sedation Dentistry

Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is a safe and mild form of sedation that has been used in dentistry for decades. While sitting comfortably in our dental chair and breathing normally, your child will inhale the sedation gas—a mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide—through a small nosepiece. Of course, you can remain at your child’s side throughout their treatment if you choose.

While sedated with nitrous oxide, your child will feel very relaxed, but they will remain awake and able to talk. Once the nosepiece is removed, the effects of the nitrous oxide will quickly wear off, although your child may not remember what happened during their treatment!

Intravenous (IV) Sedation Dentistry

While nitrous oxide sedation can be effective for alleviating mild anxiety during a dental visit, it may not do the trick if your child has nasal congestion, severe anxiety, or extensive dental treatment needs. If so, we may suggest IV sedation, which involves administering medications directly to the bloodstream via an IV line. IV sedation works quickly, inducing a state of deep relaxation and sleepiness. The team at A Kids Dentist works with an experienced and licensed anesthesiologist, who visits our offices in Huntington Beach and Pico Rivera, California, to perform IV sedation for our patients who elect this option.

Let’s Help Your Child Conquer Their Fears About Dentistry

At A Kids Dentist, we suggest following the recommendation of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry by scheduling your child’s first dental visit before their first birthday, and we are pleased to offer a Getting-to-Know-You Exam. By regularly visiting a pediatric dentist—preferably a fun one—from a young age, your child will quickly learn that there is nothing to fear about dental checkups, and more likely to develop and maintain an appropriate oral healthcare routine for life.

If you have questions about pediatric sedation dentistry, or if you would like to schedule an appointment for your child at our kid-friendly office in Huntington Beach or Pico Rivera, CA, contact A Kids Dentist today.