Sedation dentistry refers to the use of medication during dental treatment. It is most commonly used for children who are young and unable to cooperate for treatment, for patients requiring extensive treatment, or for patients with dental phobia. There are different types of sedation, including nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”), oral conscious sedation, IV sedation, and general anesthesia. Sedation is endorsed by the American Dental Association and is a safe, effective way to make many patients comfortable to minimize emotional/psychological trauma.

At Pediatric Dentistry San Ramon, we provide options of utilizing nitrous oxide and/or conscious sedation.  Both doctors are licensed with the California Dental Board to administer oral sedative to a pediatric patient.  Most of the time, we are able to accomplish treatment with the most conservative methods, however, if oral sedation is indicated for your child, our dentist will provide you with all of your options first.  If general anesthesia is recommended, we provide care at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland or at Kaiser Permanente.  Before using any type of sedative, it is important to tell the office about any medical problems your child may have or medications they are taking.