Sedation Dentistry for Children
Making Dental Visits Easy
At Farm Park Pediatric Dentistry in East Norriton, PA, we understand that visiting the dentist can be a little overwhelming for some children, especially if they’re young, have dental anxiety, or require extensive dental work. That’s why Dr. Ngozi Okoh, our pediatric dentist, offers sedation dentistry for kids, designed to help little ones feel calm, comfortable, and safe during their dental treatment.
From easing nerves to supporting children with special health issues or sensory sensitivities, sedation dentistry allows us to provide gentle care tailored to your child’s needs, without unnecessary stress. Dr. Okoh follows sedation guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), American Dental Association (ADA), and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry to make sure each child receives the safest care possible.
Benefits of Sedation Dentistry for Children
Sedation dentistry makes dental treatments painless and worry-free. For children, visits can be intimidating, as they may experience discomfort or fear of the unknown. Sedation addresses these concerns, providing relief throughout the procedure. Our pediatric patients can relax and feel at ease in the dental chair, improving their overall experience.
In cases that require complex dental care or extended procedures, sedation is a game-changer. Children who struggle to sit still, deal with severe anxiety, or have unique health issues benefit immensely. Dr. Okoh carefully reviews every child’s medical history to determine the best sedation option, allowing families in East Norriton, PA, to access worry-free dental care tailored to their needs.
If your child has already been evaluated by Dr. Okoh, please complete the sedation form for the treatment you have chosen. These forms were provided in your child’s take home folder during the visit and are available here if you need a secondary copy.
How We Provide Sedation Dentistry for Children
No two children are alike, and their dental care shouldn’t be either. That’s why we offer several options for pediatric dental sedation depending on your child’s age, medical history, dental anxiety, and the type of dental procedure needed. Each option is carefully chosen with your child’s health, comfort, and safety in mind.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a form of conscious sedation often used for children who feel nervous or need help staying calm during their visit. Your child wears a small mask over their nose and breathes in a blend of nitrous oxide and oxygen.
It’s gentle, safe, and wears off quickly, so your child can return to normal activities right after their appointment. It’s a great option for treating early childhood caries, small cavities, or mild dental anxiety.
Most children feel relaxed, silly, or sleepy, yet still stay awake and able to respond during the dental procedure. Dr. Okoh will walk you through what to expect and help you decide if nitrous oxide is the right fit for your child.
In-Office General Anesthesia
For young children, children with special needs, or those who need extensive dental work, general anesthesia may be recommended. With this type of sedation, your child is completely asleep during their dental surgery, just like in a hospital operating room.
We partner with a licensed general anesthesiologist, Dr. Sarah Lee, who comes to our dental office in East Norriton, PA, to safely administer the anesthesia. Dr. Okoh performs the dental treatment while Dr. Lee monitors your child’s breathing, airway, heart rate, and blood pressure throughout the procedure.
This option is ideal for pediatric patients who aren’t able to tolerate conscious sedation or have complicated dental needs that require deeper sedation.
When general anesthesia is recommended for your child, we understand it can feel a little intimidating, but we’re here to make the experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. Dr. Okoh and her team take every precaution to ensure your child is safe, comfortable, and cared for every step of the way.
Outpatient Treatment
Another option for children who need general anesthesia is to receive treatment at an outpatient surgery center. For this type of sedation dentistry, families meet Dr. Okoh at Red Lion Surgery Center, a trusted facility equipped for pediatric care.
Dr. Okoh is still your child’s treating dentist, but all dental procedures are done in the surgery center setting. Many families choose this route because:
- It typically costs less if dental insurance includes benefits for outpatient anesthesia
- The surgical team at Red Lion is experienced in caring for pediatric patients
- It’s an excellent option for extensive dental work, including treating decay, extractions, and more
One thing to note: there may be a wait time for scheduling due to availability. Still, this option offers a hospital-level experience with the same personalized care your child receives in our dental practice.
On the day of treatment, you’ll arrive at Red Lion Surgery Center, located in Huntingdon Valley. The environment is calm, clean, and designed to help kids and families feel at ease. A medical anesthesiologist will oversee your child’s general anesthesia while Dr. Okoh performs the dental work. Throughout the entire procedure, your child’s vital signs—including heart rate, oxygen levels, and blood pressure—are closely monitored.
After treatment, your child will be moved to a recovery area where they’ll be carefully monitored as they wake up. Most kids are ready to go home within a few hours after surgery. Dr. Okoh will provide detailed recovery instructions, including what to expect over the next 24–48 hours and how to keep your child comfortable at home.
A Gentle Approach to Pediatric Dentistry
At Farm Park Pediatric Dentistry, we believe every child deserves a positive, supportive experience—whether it’s their first visit or they need more advanced dental care. Sedation dentistry allows Dr. Okoh and her team to treat dental decay, cavities, and early childhood caries without fear, discomfort, or trauma.
Before scheduling, we invite you to review our easy sedation scheduling form to learn about each option and see which approach may be the best fit for your child.
No matter your child’s needs, our team is committed to creating a calm, safe, and supportive experience every step of the way. Call us at (484) 531-7620 to schedule an appointment!
Dental Sedation FAQs
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What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry refers to using medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. In pediatric dentistry, dentists commonly use this approach for children with dental anxiety, special healthcare needs, or who require extensive treatment in a single visit. It helps reduce movement, minimize fear, and create a more positive dental experience. There are several levels of sedation used in dental care:
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas): Provides mild relaxation and wears off quickly after treatment.
- Oral sedation: A prescription liquid or pill the child must take before their procedure to induce a deeper level of calm (not used at Farm Park Pediatric Dentistry).
- IV sedation or general anesthesia: Reserved for complex cases and administered by a trained pediatric anesthesiologist.
- You and Dr. Okoh will determine the most appropriate level of sedation based on the child’s age, medical history, and treatment needs.
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Why is sedation being recommended for my child?
Sedation is often recommended for patients who experience anxiety, fear, or discomfort during dental visits or for those who need extensive treatment.
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Is sedation dentistry safe for children?
Yes! Sedation dentistry is very safe when administered by trained professionals in a properly equipped setting. Pediatric dentists and anesthesiologists follow strict safety guidelines and monitor the child’s vital signs throughout the procedure. Before any sedation, a thorough review of the child’s medical history and medications ensures that the treatment plan aligns with the child’s current health status. Modern sedation techniques minimize the risk while maximizing comfort. Parents can feel reassured knowing that pediatric dental teams receive specialized training protocols and emergency preparedness.
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Who is the treating dentist?
Dr. Okoh
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What happens before and after the appointment?
Your child should not eat or drink from midnight of the appointment time. Before the appointment, Dr. Okoh will review consent forms and any paperwork that needs to be filled out. Dr. Okoh will also review all possible treatment your child may receive. You and your child will also meet with the pediatric anesthesiologist, who will examine your child and ensure they are in good health to be safely sedated that morning. After the appointment post-sedation instructions will be given verbally and on paper.
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How long will my child be asleep?
The length of time will depend on if x-rays are able to be taken prior to your child’s sedation and the amount of treatment your child requires. Most sedations usually last 1-2 hours.
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What are the costs associated with sedation dentistry?
There is an anesthesia cost as well as dental costs. Therefore, cost vary widely and typically fall in the $1000–$5,000+, depending on method of sedation, the type of dental treatment needed, and your medical/dental insurance (if applicable).
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Insurance Coverage:
- Medical insurance may cover sedation/anesthesia if it’s medically necessary (e.g., very young, special needs, extensive work). You must have this benefit as part of your medical insurance policy.
- Dental insurance may cover a portion of the dentistry provided by Dr.Okoh, not the anesthesia.
Preventive care is the first step toward a lifetime of healthy smiles. Our friendly team partners with parents to make every visit simple, educational, and enjoyable.
Contact us or call 484-531-7620 to schedule an appointment!
We offer early morning, evening, and Saturday appointments.