X-Rays (Dental Radiographs)

Our office uses digital radiography (digital x-rays) which allows us to take x-rays using up to 90% less radiation than conventional film x-rays. Using this technology, we are able to take an x-ray of your mouth by using a small sensor which records the image of your teeth and sends it to a computer. The result is a highly detailed image of your mouth that can easily be enhanced to better diagnosis dental concerns and determine the very best treatment for each case. There is no definitive age that dental radiographs should be taken at. There are many factors that determine the appropriate time and age that a child should begin having a radiographic examination. Dr. Murphy would be happy to answer in detail any concerns or questions you have about x-rays for your child.

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Sedation

Creating an atmosphere of comfort and compassion is very important to us so we can instill positive feelings about going to the dentist without anxiety, pain or fear. Depending on the age of the child, their behavior, and the extent of any treatment diagnosed, we offer a few options to make your child’s appointment more comfortable. We provide nitrous oxide in our office. When a deeper level of sedation is needed, we offer treatment under general anesthesia in the operating room.

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas” is used to help relax children with mild to moderate dental anxiety. Nitrous oxide is delivered through a small mask placed over the child’s nose. The effects of Nitrous Oxide help children to relax so they can receive their dental treatment calmly and safely. Nitrous Oxide is recognized by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry as a safe and effective technique to use for treating children’s dental needs. The gas is non-addictive and is eliminated from the body within a few minutes after it is stopped. While inhaling nitrous oxide, your child will remain awake and able to interact with the dental team. Nitrous Oxide also provides an analgesic or pain relieving effect. For this reason, using Nitrous Oxide often allows us to complete small fillings without numbing the mouth with local anesthetic. When local anesthetic is needed, using Nitrous Oxide first will make the injection more comfortable. Dr. Murphy utilizes Nitrous Oxide and topical anesthetic gel to make injections as pain free as possible. Many children do not even realize they have had a “shot.”

General Anesthesia

General Anesthesia may be recommended for very young children, children with extensive dental needs, children who are extremely uncooperative or apprehensive, and children with special healthcare needs. For these patients, treatment under general anesthesia allows us to complete quality dental care in the safest, fastest and least traumatic manner for the child. General Anesthesia is performed only in a hospital or outpatient surgical center, not our dental office. Your child will be completely asleep and unaware of the dental treatment that is taking place, and Dr. Murphy will be able to complete all treatment in one visit. This is similar to what you would experience if your child needed general anesthesia for an outpatient medical procedure such as removal of tonsils or placement of ear tubes. Dr. Murphy is on staff and has hospital privileges at both Renown Regional Medical Center and Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center.

Dr. Murphy will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you have about sedation.

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