Does your child get anxious or scared at the thought of having their teeth cleaned? Would they rather deal with a toothache than visit the dentist? They’re not alone. Many children feel nervous about going to the dentist and may even avoid treatment because of it. At Park Smiles NYC, we’re committed to making dental visits as stress-free and comfortable as possible for both kids and parents. That’s why Dr. Cohen offers pain-free dentistry, also known as sedation dentistry, to help your child relax during their appointment.
For the safety and comfort of our young patients, Park Smiles NYC has an on-site operating room at our Park Avenue office, accredited for both children and adults by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF). We were one of the first maxillofacial surgery practices in Manhattan to receive this prestigious accreditation, recognized as the Gold Standard for safety and quality in outpatient care.
No need to worry or feel scared! Many kids (and even grown-ups) feel nervous about visiting the dentist, sometimes even for weeks before their appointment. But with sedation dentistry, your child can feel calm and relaxed the whole time. As soon as they sit in the chair, their worries will fade away, making their visit much easier and more comfortable!
No pain at all! Many kids (and parents) worry that a trip to the dentist might hurt, but with sedation dentistry, there’s nothing to be scared of. Your child won’t feel any pain in their teeth, gums, or mouth. In fact, they’ll feel so relaxed that they won’t even worry about it! A comfortable, pain-free visit is what every parent wants for their child—and that’s exactly what sedation dentistry provides.
Easier for your child and the dentist! When kids feel nervous, they might wiggle or tense up in the chair, which can make treatment take longer. With sedation dentistry, your child stays calm and relaxed, making it easier for the dentist to work quickly and gently. This means a smoother, stress-free visit for everyone!
Your child can still respond to the dentist! With IV sedation, your child will be very relaxed but still awake, so they can follow simple instructions like opening their mouth wider if needed. If a deeper sleep is necessary, general anesthesia can be used so they stay asleep during the whole procedure. Either way, they’ll be comfortable and stress-free!
Makes the visit feel quick! If your child needs a longer treatment, sitting still can feel tough—especially if they’re feeling nervous. But with sedation dentistry, they’ll feel calm and relaxed, and before they know it, the appointment will be over. It helps time fly by, making their visit easy and stress-free!
Dr. Cohen at Park Smiles NYC offers IV sedation as well as deep sedation and general anesthesia. All methods are safe, effective and have been used by millions of people to achieve strong, beautiful smiles. Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It’s sometimes referred to as “sleep dentistry,” although that’s not entirely accurate. Patients are usually awake with the exception of those who undergo general anesthesia.
The duration of sedation dentistry effects varies depending on the type of sedation used, the individual’s metabolism, and whether the patient is an adult or a child.
Generally, sedation can last anywhere from a few hours to the better part of a day.
For children, the effects of sedation tend to last slightly longer overall due to their smaller body size and lower tolerance.
Nitrous oxide typically clears their system quickly, similar to adults, but oral sedation may leave children feeling groggy or sleepy for several hours or even longer. Parents are usually advised to monitor their child closely after the procedure and ensure they avoid strenuous activities until fully alert.
Our team provides detailed post-sedation instructions tailored to each patient’s needs to ensure a safe and smooth recovery. Whether for adults or children, our team prioritizes comfort and safety every step of the way.
Proper preparation can make your child’s sedation appointment smoother and help them feel more comfortable about the process. Here are some key steps to follow before the appointment:
Follow Fasting Guidelines
Your dentist will provide specific instructions on when your child should stop eating and drinking before the procedure. This is crucial to ensure the sedation is administered safely and effectively. Typically, children are advised to avoid solid food for 6-8 hours and clear liquids for 2-4 hours before sedation.
Help your child understand what to expect without overwhelming them. Using age-appropriate language to explain the sedation will help them relax and make the procedure easier. Also, make sure to reassure them that they will be cared for the entire time. Your dentist can help with this process as well, ensuring your child is as relaxed and comfortable as possible.
Choose loose, comfortable clothing for your child to wear on the day of the appointment. This helps them stay relaxed and ensures the dental team can monitor vital signs with ease.
If your child has a favorite toy, blanket, or stuffed animal, bring it along to help them feel more at ease before the procedure. Familiar items can provide comfort in an unfamiliar environment.
Dental visits can feel overwhelming for children, but sedation dentistry offers a safe and effective way to ease their anxiety and ensure a comfortable experience. At Park Smiles NYC, we prioritize your child’s safety and well-being, adhering to trusted guidelines and providing continuous monitoring during every procedure. From understanding their unique needs to tailoring sedation plans, we are dedicated to making dental care stress-free and reassuring for you and your family.
If your child struggles with dental anxiety or requires extensive treatment, our team is here to help. Contact us today at (212) 988-6724 or book an appointment through our contact form to learn more about sedation dentistry and how it can benefit your child. Let Park Smiles NYC provide a safe, supportive environment for all your family’s dental care needs.
Please note that we do not accept Medicaid at this time.
If you are ready to enhance your smile, the experienced cosmetic dentists at Park Smiles NYC are here to help. Our dedicated team offers a comprehensive range of services, from orthodontics to teeth whitening, to meet all your oral health needs. We understand the importance of a healthy smile for your overall well-being and are committed to ensuring your satisfaction throughout your treatment journey.
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