Your children are always safe in our capable hands.
“I love coming to see Dr. Babik and ‘Mr. Thirsty’!” – by G.C.
Dr. Babik recommends that children should generally have their first dental appointment at the age of three, when all of their baby teeth have fully grown in. Get a child acquainted with Dr. Babik, his office, and the staff, to make the children comfortable. It is paramount that children have a positive impression on their first visit. It all starts with a positive, encouraging, and happy attitude at home. Parents should communicate to their children that visiting the dentist is an adventure, not a painful experience to be dreaded. Please call our office for more information on how to properly introduce your child to the dentist. Dr. Babik will sure the teeth are growing correctly into place.
“I like going to Dr. Babik. Dr. Babik is always nice and funny. He takes good care of my teeth and is gentle. Everyone in the office is kind.” – J.B.
Many dental problems can be prevented with good dental hygiene and regular check-ups. However, if a child does need a treatment and feels mildly or moderately anxious or nervous, we have sedation that are used for children. Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, eases children’s fears so that they can relax and receive treatment comfortably and safely. Nitrous oxide is administered by placing a small mask over your child’s nose. Your child will be asked to breathe through his or her nose, and not through the mouth. As the gas begins to work, the child becomes calm, as though he or she is still awake and can talk with Dr. Babik. When the gas is turned off, the effects of sedation wear off almost immediately. As the child gets older, and becomes more comfortable with the dentist, nitrous oxide may not be needed.
Nitrous oxide is safe, easily taken, and always delivered mixed with oxygen. When the treatment has been completed, the nitrous oxide is turned off and oxygen is delivered for five to ten minutes to help flush the child’s body of gas. The effects of nitrous oxide should disappear as oxygen is breathed. Sometimes nitrous oxide can make a child feel nauseated. It’s best that a child not eat too much beforehand. Also, if your child is congested or has trouble breathing through the nose, nitrous oxide may be less effective.