Sedation Dentistry
for Kids in Jacksonville, FL
If your child feels nervous at the dentist—or struggles with sensory sensitivities—you’re not alone. At The Smile Society Dental Studio, we offer safe, gentle sedation options to help every child feel calm, in control, and supported throughout their visit. Because when kids feel safe, they can truly shine.
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What is sedation dentistry?
At The Smile Society, we currently offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas), a safe and effective option that helps reduce fear and discomfort while keeping your child awake and responsive.For kids who need deeper support, we coordinate general anesthesia with trusted pediatric anesthesiologists at a local ambulatory surgery center. Our goal is always to meet each child where they are—emotionally and medically—so they can have a successful, positive dental experience.
The benefits of dental sedation
We know that not every child walks into a dental office feeling fearless—and that’s okay. Sedation dentistry helps us meet kids with extra needs exactly where they are, giving them the tools to feel safe, comfortable, and proud of their visit. Whether your child is highly anxious, neurodivergent, or just not quite ready to handle treatment on their own, sedation can make all the difference.
Types of Sedation
We offer safe and effective sedation options to help children feel relaxed during dental procedures. Whether your child needs a little help easing anxiety or requires deeper support for complex treatment, we’ll guide you toward the right option for their needs.
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)
Nitrous oxide is a mild sedative that helps children feel calm and comfortable while staying awake during their procedure. It’s administered through a small nose mask and takes effect quickly, creating a relaxed, giggly sensation. Once the procedure is complete, the gas is flushed out with oxygen, and its effects wear off within minutes. This option is ideal for routine dental care or for kids with mild dental anxiety.
General anesthesia
For children who need extensive treatment or aren’t able to tolerate dental procedures while awake, we offer general anesthesia through our partnership with a local surgery center. This option allows your child to sleep comfortably through the entire procedure under the care of a trained anesthesia team. It’s typically recommended for children with high anxiety, special healthcare needs, or significant treatment needs that can’t be completed in-office with nitrous oxide. Our team will walk you through the process to ensure your child’s safety and comfort every step of the way.
FAQ
Still unsure if sedation dentistry is right for your child? Here are some common questions from other parents in your shoes
Yes—when administered by trained professionals, sedation is very safe. We carefully screen all patients and monitor them throughout the entire procedure.
Nitrous oxide is a mild sedative your child breathes in through a small nose mask. It helps them feel calm and relaxed while staying awake and responsive.
With nitrous oxide, your child remains awake. For deeper sedation, general anesthesia is administered by a licensed anesthesiologist in a hospital-grade facility.
Nitrous oxide wears off within minutes after the mask is removed, so your child can return to school or activities soon after.
