Going to the dentist can feel overwhelming for some children, especially when they need complex treatments or struggle with anxiety. Fortunately, pediatric sedation dentistry provides a safe and effective solution to help your child feel comfortable and relaxed during their dental appointment.
At Airway Dental and More, our Jacksonville pediatric dentists understand every child is unique, and we’re committed to taking an individualized approach to each patient that walks into our office. Our expert team uses the latest sedation techniques to ensure your child receives the dental care they deserve in a worry-free environment. Our methods focus on creating positive dental experiences that set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy oral habits.
At Airway Dental and More, we prioritize your child’s comfort during dental visits. For children who experience anxiety or nervousness, we offer nitrous oxide as a safe and gentle sedation option.
Nitrous oxide is one of the oldest and most widely researched sedative agents on the market. During dental treatment, it is mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a small mask that sits over your child’s nose to help them relax. This mild sedation option is safe and helps children feel calm and stress-free while remaining conscious and able to respond to our team. The effects wear off quickly once the mask is removed, allowing children to return to normal activities immediately.
For children who require deeper sedation or more extensive dental work, we refer families to a pediatric dentist (pedodontist) who specializes in advanced sedation techniques and complex pediatric cases. As a general dentist who enjoys treating children alongside adults, Dr. Stevenson ensures your child receives the appropriate level of care—whether that’s in our office with gentle techniques and nitrous oxide, or with a specialist when more advanced treatment is needed. Learn more about our advanced technology and approach to comprehensive care.
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Children may benefit from sedation dentistry in several situations. Those with severe dental anxiety or fear often find sedation helps them receive necessary care without trauma or distress. Kids who have difficulty sitting still for extended periods, whether due to age or attention challenges, can remain comfortable throughout longer procedures.
Sedation also proves valuable for children with special needs who may struggle with conventional dental visits. Complex procedures like multiple fillings, extractions, or extensive restorative work often go more smoothly with the use of sedation. Additionally, children with strong gag reflexes or those who have had previous negative dental experiences may find sedation helps them feel more at ease.
Your child’s safety is our top priority throughout every sedation procedure. Our team continuously monitors vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, using advanced monitoring equipment. Dr. Stevenson has extensive training in pediatric sedation protocols and maintains current certifications in Pediatric Advanced Life Support.
At Airway Dental and More, we follow strict guidelines established by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Association. Our office is equipped with emergency medications and equipment, and our staff receives regular training in sedation safety protocols. Before any sedation appointment, we review your child’s medical history, current medication use, and any allergies to ensure the safest possible experience.
Proper preparation helps ensure your child’s sedation runs smoothly. We provide detailed pre-appointment instructions, including fasting guidelines for several hours before the procedure. Comfortable clothing is also recommended, as well as your child’s favorite blanket or a small comfort item.
We encourage parents to maintain a calm, positive attitude about the upcoming appointment. Explaining the procedure in simple, kid-friendly terms can help reduce anxiety. Our team is always available to answer questions and address concerns before the appointment day.
Recovery from pediatric sedation is generally smooth and straightforward. Your child will likely feel drowsy for several hours after the procedure and may experience some dizziness or nausea. We provide comprehensive post-sedation instructions and closely monitor your child’s recovery before discharge.
Parents should plan to stay with their child for the remainder of the day and avoid activities requiring coordination or alertness. Most children return to normal activities within 24 hours, though some may feel tired longer.
If your child experiences dental anxiety or needs extensive treatment, sedation dentistry may be the solution you’ve been looking for. Dr. Stevenson and our caring team are here to discuss your options and create a plan that keeps your child comfortable and safe. We’re dedicated to making dental care a positive experience for both you and your child.
Contact Airway Dental and More today at (904) 268-4466 to schedule a consultation or complete our contact form to learn more about our pediatric sedation dentistry services in Jacksonville, Florida.
