Sedation Instructions

As pediatric dental specialists, we have additional training and expertise in the use of oral medications for the purpose of sedating children for dental treatment. Apprehension and anxiety are common responses for some children when it comes to dental procedures. An oral sedative medication may be recommended for your child to help provide a more pleasant experience and gain the level of cooperation necessary to administer dental treatment. As you prepare for that visit, please be aware of the following:

The evening before the appointment, we ask that nothing be given to eat or drink after midnight. A liquid medication will be administered to help your child relax for the appointment. If taken on a full stomach, it will increase the likelihood of vomiting.

Please arrive ten minutes before your scheduled appointment time. In order for you to be able to give your child your undivided attention during and after treatment, all of the necessary forms will be processed and any payment due will be collected before the medication is administered. You will not need to check out at the end of your visit. We will send you a receipt for the visit and process any insurance claims. If you are unable to accompany your child to this appointment and a friend or family member is bringing your child, we ask that you send along a permission slip with that person.

It is important to note that children’s reactions to these medications vary. Some children take it quite readily, while others may cry or struggle as the medication takes effect. We want to assure you, however, that there are no feelings of discomfort associated with the medication. This reaction is your child’s way of expressing resistance to drowsiness.

You will receive home care instructions at the end of the visit and we will answer any questions or concerns you may have. As your child may be sleepy after treatment, it would be nice to have a friend along whose shoulder your child could rest on while you drive safely home. If your child rides in a car seat, that friend can assist by keeping your child’s heat upright.

We will contact you one week in advance to confirm your appointment. It is imperative that you cancel this appointment 48 hours in advance if your child becomes ill or you are unable to keep this appointment for any reason.