Some kids bounce into our office ready to pick a prize and chat about their week. Others cling to a parent’s leg and won’t let go. Both are completely normal. Dental anxiety is common in children, and it’s nothing to feel embarrassed about, for you or for them.
For many anxious kids, a gentle approach and a lot of patience are enough. For others, especially when treatment is longer or more involved, sedation dentistry can make the visit calm, safe, and positive.
Our First Tools: Patience and Trust
Before we ever talk about sedation, we lean on what pediatric dentists are trained to do. We explain each step in kid-friendly words, show your child the tools, and let them touch and see before we begin. We use lots of praise, and we take breaks when needed.
Dr. Banakus often says she treats every patient as if they were her own child. That mindset shapes every decision we make about your child’s comfort.
Nitrous Oxide (“Laughing Gas”)
Nitrous oxide is a mild, safe sedative that your child breathes through a small mask over the nose. The mask is small and soft, and most kids get used to it within a minute or two.
- Your child stays awake and can talk with us
- It helps them feel relaxed, floaty, or giggly
- It starts working within a few minutes
- It wears off quickly after we switch to pure oxygen
- Most kids can go back to school or normal activities afterward
Nitrous oxide works best for mildly to moderately anxious children who can breathe comfortably through their nose.
Oral Conscious Sedation
For children with more anxiety, or for longer treatment visits, oral conscious sedation may be a better fit. Your child drinks a prescribed medication in our office. As it takes effect, they become relaxed and drowsy but can still respond to us.
Dr. Banakus holds certification in oral conscious sedation, as well as Basic Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support. During sedation, your child is continuously monitored, following the sedation guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
Who Might Benefit From Sedation?
- Children with significant dental fear or past negative experiences
- Kids who need several fillings, crowns, or extractions
- Very young children who can’t sit still for longer treatment
- Children with a strong gag reflex
- Children with special health care needs who find dental visits overwhelming
Every child is different. We’ll consider your child’s age, health history, and treatment needs, and we’ll talk with you about every option, including when another approach may be safer.
How to Prepare for a Sedation Visit
If your child is scheduled for oral conscious sedation, we’ll give you specific written instructions. They usually include:
- Food and drink rules. Your child may need to stop eating and drinking for a set time beforehand. Following these instructions exactly is important for safety.
- Health updates. Let us know if your child has a cold, fever, or congestion. We may need to reschedule.
- Comfy clothes. Dress your child in loose, comfortable clothing, and bring a favorite blanket or stuffed animal.
- Plan the ride home. A parent or guardian must stay throughout the visit. We may suggest a second adult ride along so one can watch your child in the car.
- Clear the afternoon. Plan for a quiet rest of the day at home with close supervision.
What Parents Say Matters Most
Parents tell us the hardest part is often the worry beforehand. That’s why we take time to answer your questions, explain what will happen, and keep you updated. Whether you’re coming from Wendell Falls, Knightdale, Holly Springs, or Fuquay-Varina, our goal is the same: a child who leaves calm, and a parent who leaves relieved.
Talk With Us About Sedation Options
If your child is anxious about the dentist or needs more extensive treatment, let’s find the right approach together. Call (919) 200-0463 (ext. 2 for Wendell, ext. 1 for Holly Springs) or request an appointment online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is nitrous oxide safe for kids?
Yes. Nitrous oxide has a long track record of safe use in pediatric dentistry, and it wears off quickly.
Will my child be asleep with oral conscious sedation?
No. Your child will be relaxed and drowsy, and may doze, but can still respond to voices and touch.
Can I stay with my child?
We’ll talk through what works best for your child. A parent or guardian must stay at the office throughout any sedation visit.
Will my child remember the visit?
With oral sedation, many children remember little of the appointment. With nitrous oxide, most remember it, often as a pleasant experience.
Can my child go to school after nitrous oxide?
Usually, yes. After oral conscious sedation, plan for your child to rest at home for the day.
Is sedation covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by plan. Our team can help you understand your benefits, and we offer CareCredit and other financing options.
