Sedation Dentistry for Kids in Denver, CO: What Parents Need to Know

For many children, the dental office can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s due to anxiety, sensory sensitivities, or complex treatment needs, sometimes a little extra help is needed to ensure they feel safe and comfortable. That’s where sedation dentistry comes in.

At Northfield Pediatric Dentistry in Denver, CO, we offer safe, customized sedation options to help children relax and receive the care they need—without fear or distress. Led by Dr. Rosalyn Shkolnikov (Dr. Roz), our team is committed to providing a stress-free experience tailored to every child.

This Article Will Address:

• What sedation dentistry for kids is and how it works
• Whether sedation is safe for children
• The different types of pediatric dental sedation
• How sedation can ease dental anxiety
• When sedation dentistry is recommended for children
• How to prepare for a sedation appointment
• FAQs about pediatric sedation in Denver
• Why Northfield Pediatric Dentistry is trusted for sedation care

What Is Sedation Dentistry for Kids?

Sedation dentistry uses medication to help children relax during dental procedures. It can be as mild as “laughing gas” or as deep as general anesthesia, depending on the child’s needs.

Sedation is often recommended for:

• Children with severe dental anxiety
• Those who need multiple or complex procedures
• Kids with sensory processing challenges or special healthcare needs
• Very young children who may struggle to sit still for extended periods

At Northfield Pediatric Dentistry, we go beyond sedation alone. From noise-cancelling headphones to sensory-friendly blankets and calming distractions, we create an environment where children feel safe—emotionally and physically.

In accordance with Colorado’s pediatric sedation regulations, every treatment is carefully planned and overseen by trained professionals for maximum safety.

Is Sedation Safe for Children?

Yes, when performed by experienced providers, sedation dentistry is safe for children. At our office, all sedation procedures are conducted with:

• Board-certified anesthesiologists
• Continuous monitoring of oxygen levels, heart rate, and blood pressure
• Rigorous safety protocols guided by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry

We understand that safety is a top concern for parents. That’s why we take extra steps to screen for medical conditions like asthma or allergies and tailor each sedation plan to your child’s health history. Our team will walk you through every part of the process, so there are no surprises.

What Are the Different Types of Sedation Used in Pediatric Dentistry?

We offer several levels of sedation to accommodate different needs:

• Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
  A mild sedative that helps kids stay calm while remaining fully awake. Ideal for minor anxiety or shorter visits.
• IV Sedation or General Anesthesia
  Reserved for complex procedures or extreme anxiety. Administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist either in-office or at the Children’s Hospital of Colorado, your child sleeps through the procedure safely and comfortably.

The best sedation method depends on your child’s age, health, treatment plan, and comfort level. Dr. Roz is a board-certified pediatric dentist with hospital privileges at The Children’s Hospital of Colorado and will guide you through this decision to ensure the best and most appropriate approach is used.

How Can Sedation Help Children with Dental Anxiety?

Fear of the dentist is common—especially in kids. Sedation dentistry can help by:

• Reducing anxiety and panic responses
• Making it easier to complete necessary treatments in one visit
• Creating positive dental experiences that reshape a child’s perception of care

At Northfield Pediatric Dentistry, we support anxious children in every way possible. Alongside sedation, our office is equipped with:

• Weighted blankets
• TVs with Bluetooth headphones
• Soft lighting
• Sensory toys and a prize wall

These small touches make a big difference. When children feel respected and at ease, they become more confident in the dental chair—and in themselves.

When Is Sedation Dentistry Recommended for Kids?

Sedation may be recommended if your child:

• Has extreme fear or anxiety about dental visits
• Has a developmental condition that makes sitting still difficult
• Needs extensive treatment like multiple fillings or crowns
• Is very young and unable to cooperate for longer appointments

We take a conservative approach—only recommending sedation when it truly supports your child’s health and comfort.

How Should Parents Prepare for a Sedation Appointment?

Your pediatric dental care team will provide full pre-visit instructions, but here’s a general idea of what to expect:

• Fasting: Your child may need to avoid food or drink for several hours prior to the visit.
• Medical Info: Bring any relevant medical history or allergy information.
• Comfort Items: Feel free to bring a favorite blanket or toy for reassurance.
• Post-Care Plan: Discussed with our providers.

We’ll review everything with you in advance to ensure the experience is smooth and stress-free.

FAQs About Sedation Dentistry for Kids in Denver, CO

Is sedation safe for children?
Yes, when administered by trained pediatric professionals and anesthesiologists, sedation can be safe for children under close monitoring.

How long does dental sedation last in children?
It depends on the type of sedation. Nitrous oxide wears off in minutes, while oral or IV sedation can last a few hours.

Can I stay with my child during sedation?
During nitrous oxide administration, a caregiver can be present in the room during the dental procedure. For IV or General Anesthesia cases, the caregiver is asked to wait outside of the treatment room. We encourage parental presence, especially during the beginning and end of the visit.

Does insurance cover pediatric dental sedation?
Many insurance plans cover sedation when it’s medically necessary. We accept a wide range of plans and will verify benefits for you ahead of your appointment

What if my child has special needs?
We specialize in treating children with special healthcare needs and will tailor every step of the process to your child’s individual requirements. Dr. Roz is a board-certified pediatric denist and also treats children with special needs at The Children’s Hospital of Colorado.

Why Choose Northfield Pediatric Dentistry for Sedation Dentistry in Denver, CO?

• Expertise You Can Trust: Dr. Roz completed pediatric residency training and has extensive experience with sedation dentistry for children.
• Sensory-Aware Design: From the lighting to the headphones, our office is built to support children with anxiety or sensory sensitivities.
• Safety First: Every sedation case is managed with top-tier equipment and board-certified anesthesia providers.
• Special Needs Experience: We offer highly individualized care for children with developmental or behavioral challenges.

From start to finish, our mission is to provide safe, empowering care that helps every child smile with confidence.

Book a Consultation Today at Northfield Pediatric Dentistry in Denver, CO!

If your child experiences dental anxiety or requires complex care, sedation dentistry at Northfield Pediatric Dentistry in Denver, CO can help make their visit calm, safe, and positive. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or learn more about our sedation options.

Sources

• American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
• Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies – Dental Sedation Guidelines