Laughing Gas
When it comes to dental care, children have unique needs that differ significantly from adults, and we understand that not every patient feels comfortable or safe visiting the dentist. Many adults who are affected by fear or anxiety when they visit the dentist tell us that it stemmed from a frightening experience they had as a child. 
As your children's dentist, it is our goal to make every child feel comfortable and at ease when they visit our dental office whether they are feeling fearful or have special needs that make dentistry more difficult.
Sedation dentistry is one way in which we can help our patients feel safe and secure during dental procedures. There are different levels of sedation that are designed to meet your child’s needs, whatever they may be, so they can comfortably get the dental care they need.
Nitrous Oxide
At Kids Dental Land, we offer nitrous oxide––also called laughing gas––because it produces feelings of euphoria for some patients. It also takes effect quickly and helps your child feel relaxed during preventive, restorative, or surgical procedures. We deliver nitrous through a small mask, and because the effects wear off quickly when the mask is removed, your child can continue their normal daily activities after their visit.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation is typically only used for certain pediatric cases, and it is delivered through medication that is taken one hour before your child's procedure. Because the medication offers a deeper level of relaxation, its effects last longer after treatment; it’s advised that your child rest for the remainder of the day.
Oral sedation can be an excellent option for patients who need more complex or multiple treatment procedures or have more severe anxiety or special needs. Please speak with our team at Kids Dental Land about oral sedation options in our local area.
General Anesthesia
If your child requires oral surgery, your children's dentist may recommend general anesthesia (GA) for the procedure. General anesthesia utilizes specific medications that result in sleep so your child is not alert and won’t experience pain.
The medication is administered intravenously, and an anesthesiologist monitors your child’s vital signs and heart rate throughout the procedure. The level of medication can be adjusted as needed during the procedure to ensure that your child stays safe and asleep the entire time.
This type of sedation is ideal for children who have acute anxiety, special mental or physical needs, or who need more complicated treatment procedures to maintain their oral health. Kids Dental Land does not offer GA at our dental practice, but we can refer you to a skilled and experienced team who can help. 
Who Is a Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?
Do you think sedation dentistry may be a good solution for your son or daughter? We are happy to discuss your concerns about your child’s needs with you. We can work together to decide which level of sedation is ideal for the recommended treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people feel fearful about visiting the dentist, and your child is not alone. Many adults who suffer from dental anxiety report that it's from a bad experience they had at the dentist as a child.
There are a few things you can do to help prepare your child for their dental visits:
- Talk about the dentist in a positive way. Even if you have dental anxiety, be careful not to project your fear onto your child.
- Read stories or color pictures about the dentist, and even role-play visiting the dentist with their stuffed animals or toys.
- Consider bringing your son or daughter with you to the dentist when you have your next appointment. This allows them to see what it's like at the dental office.
You can also speak with your pediatric dentist about solutions they offer for relieving dental anxiety at their practice. There are options for sedation dentistry such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) that can help your child feel at ease during most types of procedures.
Be sure to discuss your concerns with your pediatric dentist before your child arrives for their appointment so you can have an effective plan in place to create a positive experience.
Meet Our Doctor:
Dr. Tim Kang DDS
Dentist
Dr. Tim graduated from the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry at the University of Southern California. From a young age, Dr. Tim had always dreamed of becoming a dentist to serve the local communities and bring smiles to the patients he treats, contributing to a cavity-free neighborhood!
Dr. Tim found his passion for pediatric patients while working at the LA General Medical Center, where he witnessed the need to provide comprehensive care to children by assessing the child's overall health and needs, not just their teeth. Dr. Tim enjoys teaching and educating ...
Laughing Gas Technology
Laughing Gas
Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is safe for patients of all ages and helps patients feel at ease. It also calms anxiety and dulls pain and discomfort.