Nitrous Oxide and Hospital Dentistry

There are times when a child can benefit from extra help with anxiety reduction above and beyond all of the time and care taken by everyone at the office of Dr. Don and Dr. Kevin. There are different options that can allow children to relax during their dental appointment. At the initial examination all of the options will be discussed to determine the best treatment option for your child.

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

This inhaled sedative is mild and safe for your child to receive in our office. The delivery device is a small "flavored" cover for the nose. Most children that require dental treatments can be treated in the office with nitrous oxide for anxiety reduction. Nitrous oxide can also help children with a strong gag reflex receive dental treatment.

Hospital Dentistry and General Anesthesia

For children that can not be treated in a typical dental setting, hospital dentistry is made available through our office. Very anxious children, very young children with extensive dental treatment needs, and special needs patients can be candidates for hospital dentistry.

How is this visit different?

Prior to the appointment your child will need to have a physical exam completed by their physician. It is important to follow the directions about NOT EATING AND DRINKING prior to the appointment. On the day of the appointment you will bring your child to WakeMed. We will complete all of the necessary dental work while the anesthesia team administers general anesthesia and closely monitors your child. These appointments are completed on an outpatient basis at the WakeMed facility on New Bern Avenue in Raleigh. Typically, the day of the surgery your child will be drowsy and require rest. Most kids are ready to return to their normal routine the next day!

Candidates for Sedation dentistry include:

• Infants
• Children that have very extensive dental needs
• The very apprehensive child
• Children that have had traumatic dental experiences
• The medically compromised child
• Special needs children