Sedation Dentistry in Seattle, Washington
Although most young children are nervous when they go to the dentist, they usually take visits in stride. However, some kids are terrified of dental visits. They’ve either had a bad experience, or they don’t like strangers. For those kids, sedation dentistry may be necessary to treat them.
WHO CAN BE SEDATED?
At Seattle Sound Dental, we provide laughing gas for kids and adults. We can also provide an oral sedative to help ease an adult patient’s anxiety. Please call our office if you have any questions about the types of sedation we offer.
Can a Parent Be Present During the Procedure?
Our dentists encourage parents to be in the room with their children during dental procedures. It usually helps kids to remain calm and less anxious. Also, before we sedate children, we advise parents what will happen and discuss side effects with them.
With the knowledge of what the dentists will do, parents can explain it to their kids and let them know what to expect. Laughing gas or liquid sedatives helps kids to be calmer and, if injections of pain relievers are necessary, they are less apt to feel the shots.
Our dentists at Seattle Sound Dental have experience working with children, so they can usually keep them calm before and during their procedures.
What are the Side Effects of Sedation?
If this is your child’s first time with sedation, keep a close eye on him or her after their dental visit and look for signs of sensitivity to it. They may:
- Throw up
- Feel sad, grumpy, or upset
- Feel sleepy or groggy
- Be dizzy
Most side effects are minor but inform our dentists if they have reactions to the sedative. The dentist may need to give them a lighter dosage or change to an oral sedative if they show sensitivities to laughing gas or vice versa.
At Seattle Sound Dental, we feel privileged that you trust your children’s dental health to us in Seattle, Washington, and we will do all we can to keep that trust.
FAQ's
Sedation dentistry uses medications to help patients relax during dental procedures. It’s especially helpful for those who feel anxious or fearful about dental work. At Seattle Sound Dental, we offer different levels of sedation to ensure treatments are comfortable and stress-free.
Common options include nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedation (pills), and IV sedation for deeper relaxation. The right type depends on your anxiety level, medical history, and the procedure planned.
Most adult patients who feel anxious, have sensitive teeth, a strong gag reflex, or need longer or more complex dental work qualify. During your consultation at Seattle Sound Dental, we’ll review your health history and check if sedation is safe and suitable for you.
For most sedation options (nitrous oxide or oral), you’ll be relaxed and may be very sleepy, but you typically remain conscious and responsive. Deeper sedation or anesthesia is used in selected cases. Your dentist will clearly explain what to expect based on the chosen method.
You should experience little to no pain. Local anesthesia is still used to numb the treatment area, and sedation helps reduce awareness and discomfort during the procedure.
Many patients have little to no memory of what happened, especially with moderate or deep sedation. Sedation often leads to partial amnesia, meaning the anxiety or visuals of treatment are dulled or forgotten.
Effects vary depending on the type of sedation used. For example, nitrous oxide typically wears off quickly, while oral or IV sedation effects may linger for several hours. You’ll need someone to drive you home and rest afterwards.
Yes — sedation dentistry is generally safe when provided by trained professionals. Seattle Sound Dental uses proper monitoring equipment, reviews medical history carefully, and follows safety protocols to ensure patient well-being.
Common preparation includes avoiding heavy meals beforehand, arranging a ride home, and providing information about your medical history and current medications. Seattle Sound Dental will give you specific pre-appointment instructions during your sedation consultation.
Yes. Sedation allows more extensive procedures or several treatments to be completed in fewer visits, which can reduce repeated stress and improve efficiency. Seattle Sound Dental can discuss this option if you have multiple dental needs.
