Sedation Dentistry in Santa Rosa, CA

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry uses safe, carefully monitored medications to help children relax during dental treatment. It’s often recommended for patients who:

• Feel nervous or anxious about dental care
• Have a strong gag reflex or difficulty staying still
• Need multiple procedures completed in one visit
• Have special needs or sensory sensitivities
• Require extensive restorative or surgical treatment

At NorCal Pediatric Dentistry, all sedation methods are administered and monitored by trained professionals to ensure your child’s comfort and safety throughout the procedure.

Sedation Options We Offer

We provide several levels of sedation, each tailored to your child’s needs, age, and the complexity of the treatment being performed.

1. Nitrous Oxide (“Laughing Gas”)

Nitrous oxide is the mildest and most common form of sedation used in pediatric dentistry.

• Delivered through a small nasal mask
• Takes effect within minutes and wears off quickly
• Helps children feel relaxed and calm but fully awake
• Safe for children of all ages

This option is ideal for routine treatments such as dental cleanings, fillings, and sealants.

2. Oral Conscious Sedation

Oral conscious sedation provides a deeper level of relaxation while allowing the child to remain responsive.

• Administered in liquid or pill form prior to treatment
• Reduces anxiety and enhances comfort
• Ideal for children who are very nervous or need longer procedures
• Can make time feel like it passes more quickly

This option is commonly recommended for restorative treatments such as dental crowns or tooth extractions.

3. IV Sedation

IV sedation provides a moderate to deep level of relaxation and is delivered intravenously under close monitoring.

• Administered by a licensed dental anesthesiologist
• Allows for quick adjustment of sedation depth as needed
• Ideal for extensive treatment or patients with severe anxiety
• Ensures maximum comfort while maintaining patient safety

This level of sedation is especially helpful for children who cannot tolerate long procedures or have complex dental needs.

4. General Anesthesia

For children requiring extensive or highly invasive treatment, we may recommend general anesthesia, performed in a hospital or surgery center setting.

• The child is fully asleep during the procedure
• Monitored by a board-certified anesthesiologist
• Used only when absolutely necessary for safety and care completion
• Common for very young patients or those with special healthcare needs

We partner with experienced pediatric anesthesiologists to ensure each child receives the highest standard of safety and comfort during treatment.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe for Children?

Yes. Every sedation procedure at NorCal Pediatric Dentistry is overseen by professionals trained in pediatric sedation and emergency management. Your child’s vital signs are continuously monitored before, during, and after treatment.

Before recommending sedation, we conduct a thorough medical review, including:

• Your child’s health history and medications
• Any previous experiences with anesthesia or sedation
• Specific behavioral or sensory considerations

Safety and transparency are our top priorities. We’ll discuss every step in advance so you know exactly what to expect and how to prepare your child before their appointment.

What to Expect Before and After Sedation

Before Treatment:

• We’ll provide detailed pre-appointment instructions, including eating and drinking guidelines.
• Parents are encouraged to bring comfort items or familiar toys to help children feel at ease.
• Our team reviews the sedation plan and answers all questions before beginning.

After Treatment:

• Children may feel drowsy or groggy for a few hours, depending on the sedation type.
• We’ll monitor your child until they’re fully alert and safe to go home.
• You’ll receive aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.

Most children return to their usual routines within the same day.

Why Families Choose NorCal Pediatric Dentistry for Sedation

Our Santa Rosa practice is known for combining advanced sedation techniques with a truly personal approach. Families choose us because:

• We’re specialists in pediatric dentistry and understand how to communicate with children of all temperaments
• Our providers have extensive training in safe pediatric sedation
• We customize each sedation plan based on the child’s comfort and treatment needs
• We maintain a calm, supportive environment designed for kids

Dr. Adam Hiné works closely with parents and caregivers to ensure everyone feels confident before, during, and after the appointment.