Pediatric SedationIn Hudson, OH
We get it — going to the dentist isn’t always easy for children. Many kids have a hard time sitting still, which can make dental care difficult. Others may be anxious or scared about visiting the dentist. With our sedation options, your child can feel totally comfortable and relaxed during their treatment. It’s just one of the many ways we make each visit a positive experience.
Why Should I Choose Pediatric Sedation For My Child?
For children who have difficulty tolerating dental treatment - whether due to anxiety or challenges sitting still - sedation dentistry provides a comfortable solution. Dr. Greg carefully evaluates each child's situation to determine when sedation might help. This approach ensures children can receive necessary care without developing dental anxiety. We'll always discuss all options with you to find the right approach for your child's needs and comfort level.
Laughing Gas for Little Smiles
The most mild form of sedation, nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas or minimally inhaled sedation, is a safe way to help your child stay relaxed during their treatment. Not all procedures require nitrous oxide, and Dr. Greg will always discuss whether it's appropriate for your child's specific situation before proceeding.
Surgical Center Sedation
For healthy children with extensive treatment needs, Dr. Greg offers sedation services in partnership with trusted pediatric surgical centers including Medina Dental Surgical Center.
The Benefits of Pediatric Sedation
Reducing Fear and Dental Anxiety
Some children feel anxious in the dental chair or have difficulty sitting still for treatments. Sedation helps these children remain calm and comfortable, making it possible to complete necessary dental work successfully. Sedation is a tool Dr. Greg may recommend based on your child's individual comfort level, anxiety, and ability to cooperate during treatment.
Making Treatment Comfortable
Sedation dentistry helps create a comfortable, stress-free experience for children during dental procedures. Dr. Greg carefully evaluates each child's individual needs to determine the most appropriate approach for their specific situation.
Addressing Gag Reflex and Needle Phobia
Nitrous oxide can significantly reduce your child's gag reflex, which is particularly beneficial for dental work on the back teeth. For children with dental anxieties, Dr. Greg can recommend appropriate sedation options based on the specific procedure and your child's comfort level. We'll always discuss the complete process, including any necessary preliminary steps, so you and your child know exactly what to expect.
The Pediatric Sedation Treatment Process
Initial Evaluation
Before considering sedation for your child, Dr. Greg will first determine if they are a candidate for sedation by evaluating their health history, current medications, supplements, and other relevant health information. If your child is an appropriate candidate, we'll discuss the available sedation options and which one will best suit their specific needs.
Preparation & Sedation
Dr. Mertes will provide clear instructions on how to prepare for your child's appointment. Depending on the type of treatment needed, sedation may be administered in our office, at a dental surgery center, or at Akron Children's Hospital where Dr. Mertes maintains staff privileges. Each setting is equipped to help your child stay calm and comfortable throughout their procedure.
Sedation Aftercare
Your child's recovery process depends on the type of sedation used. They may recover within a half hour or require monitoring after their appointment. Dr. Mertes and our team will provide detailed instructions and guidance to ensure your child's comfort during the recovery period.
General Anesthesia
General anesthesia is sometimes the right choice for certain dental procedures. When used, your child simply sleeps comfortably through their treatment with no memory of the procedure. Dr. Greg partners with board-certified anesthesiologists at Akron Children's Hospital and Medina Dental Surgical Center to provide this option when it's the best approach for your child's specific situation.
Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist
Rest assured that your child is receiving top-notch, specialized care with our Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist, Dr. Mertes. To be recognized by The American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, doctors must undergo extensive training in the pediatric field in addition to their standard dental degrees.
IV Sedation Available
Administered by board-certified anesthesiologists, IV sedation helps your child rest comfortably while we complete their care in a single visit.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Check out these frequently asked questions, or call us to speak with our team.
Sedation in dentistry primarily serves to alleviate dental anxiety, which helps children remain calm and cooperative during their dental procedures. Many children experience fear or nervousness about dental visits, and sedation can significantly ease these feelings.
Every child is unique, and their dental care should be too. Dr. Mertes takes time to understand each patient’s medical history, behavior, and comfort level before recommending any form of sedation. Whether your child experiences anxiety, has difficulty sitting still, or is undergoing a more complex procedure, sedation may be a helpful tool to ensure a safe, stress-free experience. During your consultation, Dr. Mertes will walk you through all available options and create a personalized care plan designed to support your child’s health and peace of mind.
