Pain and Anxiety Management

Management of our young patients’ discomfort and anxiety is a primary consideration at our office, but when it’s necessary we administer and monitor it extremely carefully given the age of our patients and specific medical conditions. At Greenway Pediatric Dentistry we offer the following types of pain management and anxiety relief:

• Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): A mild form of sedation, laughing gas is the preferred option for treating most children. The gentle mix of nitrogen and oxygen is inhaled through a facial mask that covers the nose. Mild to moderate relaxation is induced immediately, relieving anxiety and fear. Once your child removes the mask, the sedating effects wear off within minutes.
• Conscious Sedation: If your child is younger or particularly nervous or fearful about dental visits then conscious sedation can be helpful. Moderate Sedation/Analgesia (“Conscious Sedation”) is a drug-induced depression of consciousness during which patients respond purposefully to verbal commands, either alone or accompanied by light tactile stimulation. Dr. Posada & Dr. Lam will administer a combination of medication and the dosage is based on your child’s overall health, weight and needed dental treatment.
• Deep Sedation: Patients with severe anxiety, special needs or those in need of extensive procedures may benefit from IV sedation. Deep Sedation/Analgesia is a drug-induced depression of consciousness during which patients cannot be easily aroused but respond purposefully following repeated or painful stimulation. This option will be administered and monitored by an anesthesiologist. Dr. Mike will discuss treatment options and all the potential risks and benefits of choosing this option.
• General anesthesia: General Anesthesia is a drug-induced loss of consciousness during which patients are not arousable, even by painful stimulation. The ability to independently maintain ventilatory function is often impaired. Patients often require assistance in maintaining a patent airway.
  Sometimes general anesthesia is necessary to provide the best quality dental care in patients with major medical problems, combative behavior and very young patients with extensive dental treatment needs. If necessary we have affiliated to one the Houston hospitals to provide dental treatment under general anesthesia in a safe environment.
• Local Anesthesia: This numbing agent is applied to gum tissue at or near the treatment area, the anesthetic wears off after the dental procedure. Local anesthesia allows for a more comfortable experience during dental treatments.

Contact our office if you have any questions and to schedule your child’s appointment.