Children’s Sedation
Dentist in London
At 76 Harley Street, we understand that some children need extra support during dental visits. Whether due to anxiety, sensory sensitivities, a strong gag reflex, or complex treatment needs, our specialist team is here to help.
We provide safe, gentle sedation in a calm, supportive setting. Our paediatric dental specialists work closely with families to ensure each child receives the care they need, comfortably and confidently.
Sedation may be especially helpful for:
- Children with high levels of fear or dental phobia
- Children with special healthcare needs or sensory processing challenges
- Very young children who cannot remain still for long periods
- Children requiring multiple treatments in one visit
- Those with a strong gag reflex or difficulty coping with instruments in the mouth
âś“ Choose 76 Harley Street for children’s sedation dentistry servicesÂ
Learn more about our specialist paediatric dental services
Reassuring Parents Every Step of the Way
We know that the idea of sedation can feel daunting for parents. That’s why we are always here to listen, inform, and support you. You will be involved in every decision, and we’ll make sure you feel confident and comfortable with the treatment plan.
Our goal is to take the stress out of dental care, for both you and your child. From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll find a team who genuinely cares, explains things clearly, and takes the time to build trust and rapport.
❝ My family and I have been going to 76 Harley Street for over 10 years because it’s a fantastic dental practice. Now no one wants to go to the dentist but if you must, 76 Harley Street is the place to go. Farid Monibi and his team are professional, knowledgeable, and welcoming and put you at ease immediately.
F&Qs
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What is Sedation Dentistry for Children?
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Inhalation Sedation - What To Expect
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Is Sedation Safe for Children?
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Sedation Vs General Anaesthesia
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Sedation dentistry involves using medication to help children relax during their dental procedures. It is not the same as general anaesthetic. With sedation, your child remains conscious and responsive but is in a calm and drowsy state, making it easier for them to cope with treatment.
At 76 Harley Street, we offer inhalation sedation, also known as “happy air” or nitrous oxide, which is the most commonly used form of sedation for children. This type of sedation is delivered through a small, comfortable nosepiece, allowing your child to breathe in a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen. It is fast-acting, safe, and wears off quickly after the procedure.
Inhalation sedation is a tried and trusted method used in paediatric dentistry for decades. The gas has a calming effect and can even make children feel a little giggly or floaty, which is why it’s often referred to as “happy air.”
The sedation process typically works like this:
- Initial Consultation & Treatment Planning – We carry out a medical and dental assessment and explain everything in detail. A treatment plan is outlined and consent is always obtained before a sedation appointment is carried out.
- On the day – Your child is seated comfortably and fitted with a small, scented nosepiece. They will breathe in a mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide.
- During the procedure – The sedation takes effect quickly, and your child remains awake but relaxed throughout the treatment. They are monitored closely by our team at all times.
- After the procedure – The nitrous oxide is turned off and your child breathes pure oxygen for a few minutes to flush out any remaining gas. They will recover quickly and can usually return to normal activities the same day.
Inhalation sedation is extremely safe, with very few side effects. It is non-invasive and well-tolerated by most children.
Yes, when administered by trained professionals in a specialist setting, sedation is considered extremely safe. At 76 Harley Street, all sedation is delivered by clinicians who are highly experienced in paediatric care, with full monitoring and emergency protocols in place.
We always carry out a full pre-sedation assessment to ensure that your child is medically suitable for sedation and that any risks are minimised. Throughout the procedure, your child’s oxygen levels, heart rate, and response to treatment are monitored continuously to ensure their safety and comfort.
It’s important to understand the difference between sedation and general anaesthetic. Sedation keeps the child awake but calm, while general anaesthetic puts the child into a temporary, controlled unconscious state.
At 76 Harley Street, all sedation procedures are carried out in-house, whereas general anaesthetic is only provided off-site at Cromwell Hospital under the care of our consultant-led team. If your child requires treatment under general anaesthetic, for example, if they are very young, have extensive dental needs, or cannot tolerate any dental work awake, we will guide you through that process with care and coordination.
If you think your child may benefit from sedation dentistry, or if you’ve been referred by another dentist or healthcare professional, we’re here to help.
We welcome parents to get in touch to arrange an initial consultation with our specialist paediatric dental team. Together, we’ll find the most comfortable, safe, and effective way to help your child get the dental care they need—with calm, confidence, and compassion.