Oral Sedation at Helotes Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

At Helotes Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we understand that dental visits can be a source of anxiety for many children. To help ease their fears and ensure a comfortable experience, we offer oral sedation as a safe and effective option. Our experienced team, including Dr. Poonam Shah and Dr. Kara Whittington, is committed to providing gentle and compassionate care to help your child feel relaxed during their dental treatments.

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What Is Oral Sedation?

Oral sedation involves administering a sedative medication by mouth to help a child relax during dental procedures. This type of sedation is effective in reducing anxiety and helping children who have difficulty sitting still for extended periods. The sedative is typically given in liquid form, and the effects can last throughout the dental visit, ensuring your child remains calm and comfortable.

How Does Oral Sedation Work?

Oral sedation works by depressing the central nervous system, which helps to calm the child and reduce their anxiety. The medication is administered before the dental procedure begins, and it takes effect within 30 to 60 minutes. While under the influence of oral sedation, your child will be conscious but in a deeply relaxed state, making it easier for the dentist to perform the necessary treatments.

Benefits of Using Oral Sedation

Reduces Anxiety: Helps children feel calm and less anxious during dental visits.
Safe and Effective: Oral sedation is a safe option with minimal side effects.
Improves Cooperation: Assists children who have difficulty sitting still or who are undergoing longer procedures.
Comfortable Experience: Ensures a more pleasant experience for children with dental fears.

Is Oral Sedation Safe for My Child?

Yes, oral sedation is considered safe for children when administered by experienced professionals. At Helotes Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, our team carefully monitors each child’s response to the sedative to ensure their safety and comfort throughout the procedure. We also provide detailed pre- and post-sedation instructions to parents to ensure a smooth experience.

What to Expect During a Visit

Initial Assessment:
Our dentists will evaluate your child's medical history and discuss any concerns to determine if oral sedation is appropriate for their treatment. Learn more about our services.
Administration of Oral Sedation:
The sedative medication is administered in liquid form, and your child will be closely monitored as the medication takes effect.
Dental Procedure:
Once your child is comfortably sedated, we will proceed with the dental treatment. Our team will monitor your child’s vital signs and comfort level throughout the procedure. Explore our pediatric dental treatments for more information.
Post-Treatment Care:
After the procedure, your child may feel drowsy or groggy for a few hours. It’s important to follow the post-sedation instructions provided by our team to ensure a safe recovery.

Why Choose Helotes Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics?

Experienced Pediatric Dentists

Our board-certified pediatric dentists, Dr. Poonam Shah and Dr. Kara Whittington, have extensive experience in providing oral sedation to help children feel comfortable during dental treatments. Learn more about our team of specialists.

Comprehensive and Compassionate Care

We offer a supportive and caring environment to ensure your child's dental visit is as pleasant as possible. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized care tailored to the unique needs of each child.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Our modern facilities are equipped with the latest technology to provide the highest quality dental care. We prioritize safety and comfort in all our treatments. Discover our full range of orthodontic services and how we can help your child achieve a healthy smile.

Convenient Locations and Flexible Hours

With multiple locations and flexible office hours, including evenings and weekends, we make it easy for you to access the care your child needs. Visit us in San Antonio, Helotes, Stanton Run, and Braun’s Farm.

Schedule Your Child's Appointment Today!

If your child experiences dental anxiety or you are interested in learning more about how oral sedation can help, contact Helotes Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics to schedule an appointment. Our team is here to provide the best care for your child's dental health. Visit our contact page to book your appointment today.