Pediatric Sedation DentistIn Rock Hill, SC
We understand that dental visits can be overwhelming for some children. Whether they’re wiggly in the chair or feeling nervous about treatment, we always start with gentle techniques to help your child feel safe and at ease. Sedation is never our first step — but when it’s truly needed, we offer safe, effective options to help make treatment stress-free. Our goal is to create a calm, positive experience for every child, every time.
Why Should I Choose Pediatric Sedation For My Child?
Pediatric sedation is a good option to consider for your child’s dental appointments because it can make a big difference in how they view the dentist. It helps keep them calm and relaxed, especially if they struggle to sit still or get nervous. This way, the dentist can do their work with ease, and your child won’t feel scared or uncomfortable. It's all about making sure they get the dental care they need in the most stress-free way possible. Just have a talk with your dentist to see if it's the right fit for your child’s needs.
The Benefits of Pediatric Sedation
Reducing Fear and Dental Anxiety
Visiting the dentist can be intimidating for children, especially for procedures like fillings. Sedation allows your child to feel calm and relaxed, ensuring a more comfortable experience during their dental appointment.
Minimizing Pain and Discomfort
When used with local anesthetics, sedation is highly effective in minimizing any potential pain and discomfort during dental treatments. This not only makes the process smoother for your child but also gives you peace of mind knowing they are comfortable.
Addressing Gag Reflex and Needle Phobia
Certain types of sedation can significantly reduce your child’s gag reflex. This is particularly beneficial for dental work on the back teeth. Sedation also helps to alleviate the common fear of numbing needles.
Our Difference
Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist
Rest assured that your child is receiving top-notch, specialized care with our Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist. To be recognized by The American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, doctors must undergo extensive training in the pediatric field in addition to their standard dental degrees.
Laughing Gas for Little Smiles
The most mild form of sedation, nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas or minimally inhaled sedation, is a safe way to ensure your child stays relaxed during their treatment.
The Pediatric Sedation Treatment Process
Initial Consultation & Approval
Before considering sedation for your child, your child’s pediatric dentist will evaluate their health history, current medications, supplements, and other relevant health information. If your child is a good candidate, you will be informed about the available sedation options and which one will best suit their needs.
Preparation & Sedation
Your child's pediatric dentist will let you know if there’s anything you need to prepare before your child’s appointment. On the day of the visit, your child will receive sedation in our office, helping them stay calm and comfortable during their treatment.
Sedation Aftercare
Your child’s recovery process depends on the type of sedation used. They may recover within just a few minutes or require some special aftercare and monitoring after their appointment. Your pediatric dentist will give you all the details you need to care for your child after their treatment.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Check out these frequently asked questions, or call us to speak with our team.
Sedation in dentistry primarily serves to alleviate dental anxiety, which helps children remain calm and cooperative during their dental procedures. Many children experience fear or nervousness about dental visits, and sedation can significantly ease these feelings. It's also beneficial for managing discomfort during more involved procedures like tooth extractions, and it helps children who have difficulty staying still for extended periods during treatments.
Every sedation option feels a little different. Laughing gas (nitrous oxide) is the most common and gentle form—it helps minimize anxiety and helps your child feel calm and relaxed during treatment. They’ll stay fully awake and alert but won’t experience discomfort.
Our team carefully monitors your child throughout the entire visit to ensure their comfort and safety, always using the lightest touch needed to make their experience as positive as possible.
Sedation dentistry is safe for children of all ages, including toddlers when administered correctly. We ensure safety by conducting a thorough health history assessment and choosing the appropriate sedation method for each child. You’ll be fully informed about the chosen sedation technique, its effects, and aftercare requirements. All sedation procedures are carried out by qualified professionals on our team. At every step of the process, we prioritize your child's safety and comfort.
Pediatric sedation dentistry helps children relax during dental procedures, reducing fear and anxiety so they can receive the care they need comfortably and safely. At New Heights Pediatric Dentistry in Rock Hill, we offer nitrous oxide sedation, commonly known as “laughing gas.” It’s a gentle, fast-acting option that your child inhales through a small mask.
Within minutes, they feel calm and more at ease, while remaining awake and able to respond to commands, questions, and instructions. Once treatment is over, the effects wear off quickly. It’s especially helpful for children who are nervous, have special needs, or need longer procedures. Dr. Jas Guram and our caring team make the experience relaxing from start to finish. Your child’s comfort always comes first.
For many families, cost is a big consideration, and we completely understand. Coverage for nitrous oxide sedation can vary by insurance provider and individual plan, but it is often partially or fully covered when deemed medically necessary. Our front office team at New Heights Pediatric Dentistry will help you review your benefits and clarify any out-of-pocket costs ahead of time.
We’re happy to walk you through your options and answer any financial questions, so you’re never caught off guard. Trust that we’ll always work with you to make your child’s care affordable and straightforward. Peace of mind should never come with a surprise bill.
One of the biggest benefits of using nitrous oxide in pediatric sedation dentistry is how well it reduces anxiety and enhances comfort, without putting your child fully to sleep. Your child remains awake but feels calm, slightly giggly, and less aware of the dental procedure. Most importantly, it’s extremely safe when administered by experienced professionals like Dr. Jas Guram and our team in Rock Hill.
Nitrous oxide is considered to be the mildest form of dental sedation, and has been used in dentistry for more than 150 years. The effects fade quickly once the mask is removed, so your child can return to normal activities shortly after. We’ll be by their side the entire time, making sure they are comfortable and cared for.
The effects of nitrous oxide used during pediatric sedation dentistry typically wear off within minutes after the gas is stopped. We allow your child to breathe in oxygen for a few moments afterward to clear any remaining nitrous oxide from their lungs. Most children feel completely normal within 5 to 10 minutes and are able to resume regular activities, including returning to school or eating a light meal.
Side effects are rare but can sometimes include slight dizziness or nausea, which typically passes quickly. Our team at New Heights Pediatric Dentistry provides simple aftercare tips before you leave to ensure a smooth transition back to normal. We're always just a phone call away if you have questions after the visit.
Pediatric sedation dentistry with nitrous oxide is a great fit for many children, especially those who feel anxious at the dentist, have difficulty sitting still, or need extra support to complete treatment comfortably. It’s also commonly used for children with special healthcare needs. At New Heights Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Guram takes time to get to know every child and family.
Together, you and our team can determine whether nitrous oxide is the right choice based on your child’s age, medical history, and the type of treatment needed. You’ll always be part of that conversation. We welcome parents into treatment rooms because your presence helps create a calm experience for your child. We’re here to partner with you every step of the way.
