Sedation dentistry is often mistakenly thought to induce sleep.  In fact, most sedatives allow the patient to stay awake during the procedure.  Sleepiness is a side effect of some medications, but nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation and IV sedation only work to calm anxiety throughout the dental visit.

Sedation dentistry is popular because most sedatives can be taken by mouth. Some sedatives work so effectively that even the smells and details of the procedure cannot be recalled afterwards.  Safety and compliance are two important aspects of treatments, so sedation dentistry offers both the child and the dentist the best alternative.

Here are some advantages associated with sedation dentistry:

• Anxiety is alleviated.
• Few side effects.
• More can be accomplished during each visit.
• Perfectly safe.
• Procedures seem to take less time.

Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen

What is nitrous oxide/oxygen?

Nitrous oxide/oxygen ("Laughing Gas") is a blend of 2 gases, oxygen and nitrous oxide. When inhaled, it is absorbed by the body and has a calming effect. Normal breathing eliminates nitrous oxide/oxygen from the body.

How safe is nitrous oxide/oxygen?

It is perhaps the safest sedative in dentistry. It is easily administered and also quickly eliminated from the body before the child leaves the office.

How will my child feel when breathing nitrous oxide/oxygen?

Your child will feel calm and relaxed. Your child will also be fully awake.

Are there any lingering effects or special care after nitrous oxide/oxygen?

No. All the nitrous oxide is completely out of your child's system by the time the appointment is over. At the end of the appointment the child is given 100% oxygen to breath for several minutes.

Will nitrous oxide/oxygen work for all children?

Every child is different! Some children will not need or benefit from the use of nitrous oxide/oxygen, although most do.

IV Sedation

We have a board certified pediatric anesthesiologist, who will be present and perform the sedation while Dr. Makram  performs all necessary dental treatment in the office.
Dr. Vila is a board certified anesthesiologist with advanced training in pediatric anesthesia, and more than 20 years of anesthesia practice. He has been elected to the Best Doctor's in Tampa Bay and in America lists and serves on the Board of Directors for several Medical Organizations including the American Society of Anesthesiologists (www.pediatricsedation.com).

What are the benefits of using IV sedation?

• We can take necessary dental x-rays when they are asleep, which allows us to see if there are more areas affected and treat at the same time. This may result in a change in the original treatment plan given at the child’s examination visit. All dental work can be done in one day.
• The child is asleep during the IV sedation. They are not aware of the treatment being done.
• They might not need to be numb for treatment. Young children do not understand this feeling and can potentially chew the inside of their cheek and lip.
• We can take necessary dental x-rays when they are asleep, which allows us to see if there are more areas affected and treat at the same time. This may result in a change in the original treatment plan given at the child’s examination visit.
• All dental work can be done in one day!