Pediatric Dentistry Kahala provides pediatric dental sedation services for children and special-needs patients in Honolulu, HI. Our pediatric dentist and team specialize in helping kids feel comfortable and relaxed during treatment, ensuring a positive experience at every appointment.
To learn more about pediatric dentistry and to schedule an appointment, please call our office at 808-737-0076.
Sedation Options in Pediatric Dentistry
Many parents have questions about sedation dentistry and how it can help their children achieve a calm, relaxed state during dental procedures. Our practice offers several sedation options designed to minimize discomfort and help kids of all ages—including patients with special needs—receive the dental care they need for a healthy smile.
Local Anesthesia in Pediatric Dentistry
Local anesthesia refers to a topical and/or injected anesthetic that will affect only the targeted area for a brief period of time to minimize or eliminate sensation or discomfort in that specific “localized” area during a dental procedure. Your pediatric dentist will administer local anesthesia prior to treatment to help ensure your child’s mouth and teeth remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
Nitrous Oxide for Dental Work
Nitrous oxide, sometimes referred to as “laughing gas,” is an effective and safe conscious sedation agent that is inhaled through a mask that fits over your child’s nose. Mixed with oxygen, nitrous oxide allows the patient to breathe normally through their nose, and within minutes they should start to feel the effects. They may feel light-headed or notice a tingling in their arms and legs. Some patients comment that their legs and arms feel heavy. Ultimately, they should feel comfortable and calm. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off quickly after the mask is removed. Nitrous oxide is a preferred choice among many parents because it does not involve falling asleep or medication that lasts for several hours—children typically return to their normal state shortly after the mask is removed. Talk to the pediatric dentist about whether nitrous oxide would be a good option for your child’s dental care.
