Sedation Dentistry for Children & Teens
Safe and Gentle IV Sedation Dental Treatment in Lilburn
At Tebo Dental, we understand that some patients—especially young children—may feel anxious or uncooperative during standard dental treatment. For cases involving extensive procedures or significant fear, we offer in-office IV (intravenous) sedation, also known as conscious sedation, to help your child comfortably complete the care they need.
Below, you will find an overview of our approach, safety protocols, expectations, and how sedation works at our Tebo Dental location in Lilburn.
Why Sedation Dentistry May Be Recommended
Sedation dentistry is often recommended for children who experience severe dental anxiety, have difficulty sitting still, need multiple or lengthy procedures in a single visit, or have special needs that make traditional treatment challenging. By keeping your child calm yet responsible, sedation allows our dental team to safely and efficiently complete necessary care—often in a single appointment—while minimizing stress and trauma.
Our Approach and Safety Standards
We were among the first in Georgia to offer IV sedation treatment in-office in a dental setting, rather than requiring a hospital-based setting.
- At Tebo Dental, we do not use oral sedation or restraining devices like papoose boards.
- Anesthesiologists and registered nurses are present during all IV sedation procedures to continuously monitor your child’s vital signs.
- Our sedation environment upholds strict safety standards to ensure patient care and safety. Key components include maintaining a sterile environment, utilizing monitoring equipment, enforcing emergency protocols, fostering open communication with patients and their families, and providing comprehensive pre-operative instructions.
- During sedation, parents are asked to wait in a designated area to ensure a calm and controlled environment for the patient. This is important for the safety and comfort of the patient, dentist, and anesthesiologist.
Medicaid, Insurance, and Coverage for Sedation
- Prior authorization is required for Medicaid patients before receiving IV sedation.
- Some Medicaid plans allow one sedated visit per year, while others allow only one per lifetime. Additional sedation may incur out-of-pocket expenses.
- Eligibility for cases to qualify under Medicaid is evaluated based on exams and imaging, and not all cases meet the qualifications.
- We also work with private PPO plans. Our insurance verification team will review your coverage and provide you with an estimate prior to treatment.
Choosing Tebo Dental for Sedation Dentistry
- We specialize in pediatric and teen dental care at our office in Lilburn and at our other locations.
- Our sedation protocols are managed internally by board-certified anesthesiologists and nursing staff.
- We prioritize safety, transparency, and respect for our patients and their families.
- Our goal is to facilitate a smooth, calm, and successful experience for both the child and parent, reducing any stress or anxiety related to the sedation process.
What to Expect: A Step-by-Step Guide to the Sedation Process
Before the Appointment
- Arrive for your appointment about 30 minutes early to complete necessary paperwork and have the patient’s weight and vital signs checked, as well as any required preparations.
- Fasting guidelines must be followed, which include refraining from solid food for at least 6 hours before and permitting clear liquids until a few hours prior.
Pre-medication & Starting the IV
- A mild sedative, such as a Ketamine injection, is administered to initiate relaxation.
- Once your child is drowsy, they are escorted back to the treatment room, where the IV line is monitored and observed.
During the Procedure
- Propofol, or a similar agent, is administered intravenously to maintain sedation.
- The dental provider performs restorative or other necessary treatments while your child is asleep and under supervision.
Recovery and Discharge
- After treatment, your child will be moved to a recovery area where a nurse will monitor them until they respond to commands, such as “open your eyes.”
- Parents are called back, and the dentist discusses the completed treatment and post-operative care instructions.
- Care guidelines are provided for your child upon discharge to assist in monitoring their recovery at home.
- The recovery process usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, although drowsiness may last longer.
Call Us to Schedule a Sedation Dentistry Consultation
If you think your child could benefit from sedation dentistry, we can schedule a consultation to explain the process, assess eligibility, and address any questions. Call or request an appointment today and let us help make your child’s dental care more comfortable.
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