At Valley Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we aim to make every family who comes through our doors feel welcomed and heard. We know that going to the dentist can be frightening for children, and at times, frustrating for parents. We gladly offer desensitization visits, provide positive reinforcement, and leverage technology for enhanced comfort. To learn more about behavior and pain management services at Valley Smiles Pediatric Dentistry in Ramsey, NJ, call 201-746-4626 or message us.
What is Behavior and Pain Management in Dentistry?
Behavior and pain management is a tailored approach to fit the needs of your child. Our personalized techniques aim to help children receive essential oral healthcare, irrespective of personalities, needs, or abilities. Because no two children are the same, pediatric dentists devote significant time to education and training to provide behavioral support to children who struggle with emotional regulation, pain tolerance, and remaining calm and still during treatment.
At Valley Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, our dentists adhere to the behavior guidance recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD).
Benefits of Behavior and Pain Management in Dentistry
Calms overactive children • Soothes anxious children • Reassures fearful children • Relaxes active or fidgety children • Makes children more comfortable • Mitigates pain • Ensures children receive critical care for healthy growth and development
Our patient chairs feature friendly animals, and our dental staff is happy to demonstrate various “treatments” on stuffed animals to help young patients relax. For anxious or nervous patients, nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is available for relaxation, while remaining conscious.
Valley Smiles Pediatric Dentistry is an inclusive dental practice. Our pediatric dentists are all Board-Certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and have completed extensive continuing education and training in treating children with special needs.
Behavior and Pain Management Services and Techniques at Valley Smiles
Positive Reinforcement Behavior Modification
Positive reinforcement behavior takes many forms ranging from affirmation of good behavior to incentives for completing dental cleanings (pick-a-prize).
Desensitization Visits
We gladly schedule desensitization visits, with no treatment involved. Parents and children can come to our office, get familiar with our staff, watch & participate in a dental cleaning demonstration (on a stuffed animal), and much more. Getting used to going to the dentist can be enormously helpful for anxious or fearful children.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
For pain management, nitrous oxide is available. Known to most as laughing gas, nitrous oxide has been used in dentistry for decades. It is fast-acting, and wears off immediately. Nitrous oxide produces a euphoric, carefree feeling without putting the child to sleep.
General Anesthesia
Where necessary, general anesthesia may be administered to provide essential oral healthcare to children.
Single Tooth Anesthesia
Single tooth anesthesia allows our dentists to only numb a tooth that is being treated, rather than numbing a section of the mouth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Behavior and Pain Management in Dentistry
Schedule a Pediatric Dental Appointment at Valley Smiles Pediatric Dentistry
To schedule a pediatric dental appointment for your child, call 201-746-4626 or message us.