Sedation dentistry for children uses medication to help a child feel calm, relaxed and comfortable during dental treatment. When provided by a trained pediatric dental team and used in accordance with established safety guidelines, sedation can be a safe and helpful option. It is not a last resort or a sign that something is wrong. For children with dental anxiety, sensory sensitivities or treatment needs that require more time in the chair, sedation can make it easier to complete necessary care in a calm, supportive way. Understanding the available options can help you make a confident decision about what is best for your child.
At University Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Funny brings over 18 years of experience helping children in the Charlotte area receive the care they need in an environment built around their comfort. Our office is designed with anxious and sensory-sensitive children in mind, from adjustable lighting and private rooms to sensory toys and a calm, unhurried approach to every appointment. When a child needs additional support to get through treatment, our team is equipped to provide it safely and thoughtfully.
What Does Sedation Dentistry Actually Involve?
Sedation dentistry is not one-size-fits-all. There are different levels of sedation, and the right choice depends on a child’s age, health history, temperament and the complexity of the treatment needed. The goal in every case is to reduce fear and discomfort while keeping the child safe throughout the procedure.
The three options offered at University Pediatric Dentistry are:
- Nitrous oxide: Commonly called laughing gas, it is inhaled through a small mask and produces a relaxed feeling without putting a child to sleep, making it ideal for mild anxiety.
- In-office general anesthesia: For children who need extensive treatment or have significant anxiety, this option allows the dentist to complete all necessary work while the child is fully asleep and continuously monitored. A dental anesthesiologist provides the sedation while Dr. Funny and the clinical team provide the dental treatment needed.
- Hospital dentistry: Similar to in-office general anesthesia, is for children who need extensive treatment, have significant anxiety and/or special healthcare needs. These patients are treated in the operating room under general anesthesia so that all dental care can be delivered while they are sleeping.
Our sedation dentistry page outlines the options we offer and what families can expect from each approach.
Is Sedation Safe for Children?
This is the question most parents ask first, and it deserves a direct answer. Pediatric sedation, when performed by a qualified provider in a properly equipped setting, carries a strong safety record. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatrics have jointly established detailed sedation guidelines for the monitoring and management of children before, during and after sedation, reaffirmed as recently as June 2025.
Before any sedation appointment, Dr. Funny conducts a thorough review of your child’s health history to identify any factors that could affect how they respond to sedation medication. On the day of the procedure, your child is monitored continuously from start to finish. Parents also receive detailed pre- and post-care instructions to support a smooth recovery at home.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Sedation?
Not every child who visits the dentist needs sedation, but there are situations where it makes treatment both safer and more efficient. Children who may benefit include those with significant dental anxiety, those who have had a difficult dental experience in the past and very young children who are not yet able to cooperate for longer procedures. Our special needs dentistry program serves patients who require a more tailored environment and approach, and sedation is often a key part of providing that care.
The decision to use sedation is always made collaboratively between Dr. Funny and the child’s family. In many cases, a child who felt nervous at their first dental visit becomes far more comfortable over time with the right support.
What to Expect Before, During and After
Preparation for a sedation appointment begins well before the day of the procedure. Families receive specific instructions about fasting requirements and any medications to avoid. On the day of the appointment, a parent or guardian should remain at the office throughout and be ready to take the child home to rest and recover afterward.
Most children bounce back quickly after lighter forms of sedation. General anesthesia requires a bit more recovery time, and your child may feel groggy for the remainder of the day. Dr. Funny will walk you through exactly what to expect for your child’s specific situation, so there are no surprises.
Let University Pediatric Dentistry Put Your Child at Ease
If the idea of your child needing sedation feels overwhelming, you are not alone, and you do not have to figure it out on your own. Dr. Funny takes the time to sit down with every family, answer every question and make sure you feel fully informed and comfortable before any treatment begins. There is no pressure and no rush, just honest guidance from a provider who genuinely cares about your child’s experience.
University Pediatric Dentistry has spent years building a practice where children feel safe and parents feel heard. Dr. Funny and our team are here to walk you through every option, answer every concern and make sure your child receives the right level of care in an environment designed around their needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and see the difference a truly child-centered practice can make.