Age Appropriate Behavior
For a child entering a new place such as a dentist’s office, it is very appropriate to be nervous and/or scared. Sometimes this is exacerbated by stories they hear from siblings, friends, and even unwitting parents.  A parent’s fears/feelings about their own dentist can be transferred to their child with or without the parent knowing. If a child is in discomfort from a tooth, this is even more frightening for them.  Being nervous is common and our staff is experienced in helping to relax your child. This is a combined effort by the parents and our treatment team.  Our responsibility is to have a child-friendly atmosphere and interaction.  For the first visit, please tell your child that we will count their teeth and make them nice and clean, followed by vitamins to make them strong.  Tell them we will explain everything and encourage them to ask questions and inquire, as children love to learn new things.  Almost all children will have a pleasant experience.  For fillings, I will explain everything so the child is comfortable with the procedure.  If you feel your child may have extra-nervous feelings, don't hesitate to let me know.  I will do everything I can to make your child comfortable.  Some children may cry at the dentist and for very young or nervous children, this cannot be avoided sometimes and will decrease significantly with each visit as the child grows and matures.  For children who have many treatment needs, or those who might have had previous unpleasant experiences, I have alternative behavior management options.  These options might include: 
 
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous Oxide is a blend of two gases (N20 and Oxygen).  It is administered through a nasal hood that sits on the patient's nose during the procedure.  When inhaled, it is absorbed by the body and has a calming and slightly analgesic effect.  It has a pleasant, slightly sweet odor and taste.  Nitrous Oxide does not cause the patient to become unconscious but may make them drowsy.  Its biggest advantage is that the patient is more relaxed and allows treatment to be rendered.  The biggest obstacle to using laughing gas is patient cooperation.  If the child does not want to or cannot breath with their nose, it will not be effective and an alternative behavior management technique will be necessary. 
 

Oral Conscious Sedation 
This procedure is when a child is given an oral (liquid) medicine to calm and relax him.  Ideally the medicine should have an amnesic effect and should calm them to the point where treatment is more comfortable for them.  Oral conscious sedation is a very good option for some children and situations.  It has it limitations and risks and will be given as an option for appropriate situations.