Sedation Dentistry for Children in Clinton, NJ

Pediatric Dental Associates provides sedation dentistry for children in Annandale, NJ. Call 908-735-6300 to learn more and schedule your appointment. 

To ensure that all of your child’s experiences at our office are positive ones, we may use sedation to keep them calm and comfortable during difficult or lengthy procedures. We follow all American Dental Association guidelines for the usage of sedation dentistry for children and work with you to discuss which options are right for your child.

This refers to a topical or injected anesthetic that numbs a specific area for a brief period of time while we work. Local anesthesia only eliminates sensation, so we often use it in conjunction with nitrous oxide.

Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is a safe inhaled sedation agent that helps your child feel comfortable, relaxed, and calm during their dental treatment. Nitrous oxide is mixed with oxygen and your child will inhale it through a mask that fits over their nose. It takes effect quickly, but it also wears off just as fast once the mask is removed; this means it has no long-lasting side effects. Children may have a feeling of heaviness in the limbs and some also have nausea, but there are no serious risks involved.

Yes, the most common sedative we use is nitrous oxide, which is both safe and effective. It wears off quickly and there are very few side effects, all of which are mild.

If your child has significant respiratory issues such as cystic fibrosis, they will not be able to use nitrous oxide. We will discuss alternatives with you prior to your child’s procedure.

Nitrous oxide wears off about two minutes after the mask is removed from your child’s nose.

We use local anesthesia for cavities, crowns, extractions, and minor oral surgeries, like frenectomies.

At our practice, we use nitrous oxide. We feel that it is the safest option and when combined with local anesthesia, it allows children to have a very comfortable dental experience without the need for stronger sedatives, which present more risks and take longer to wear off.

Call 908-735-6300 to schedule your appointment.