Sedation
Our office is designed for young patients and our pediatric dentists have additional training in caring for infants, children and adolescents. Most children are calm, comfortable and confident in a pediatric dental office. Sometimes, however, a child may feel anxious or fearful before or during treatment. Therefore, your child may need a bit more support to be able to complete the dental treatment required. Different sedation options are available and your pediatric dentist will suggest the one most suitable for your child.
Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen Inhalation (“Laughing Gas”).
Nitrous oxide is commonly called laughing gas. It is administered along with oxygen using a mask over the nose, also called a “nasal hood”. Nitrous oxide-oxygen is effective when the child is anxious. It is a minimal sedation technique. The gas makes the child feel more relaxed and comfortable when he or she receives dental treatment. It may also help the child feel less pain. The child remains fully awake during the entire treatment. Normal activities can be resumed immediately after the use of laughing gas.
Oral Sedation
In some circumstances, the “laughing gas” may not be sufficient to help guide your child’s behaviour during dental treatment. Sedative medication may be used in these cases. The child will drink the medication mixed with juice before the appointment. This will reduce the child’s anxiety and help him or her tolerate more complicated or longer treatments so they can be completed safely and effectively. We will take the necessary measures to ensure the safety and well-being of your child during dental procedures. These medications cause your child to feel relaxed and drowsy, however, they are not meant to make them unconscious. It is a moderate sedation where the child is still awake during the treatment. After treatment with sedation, the child will need to go home and rest while being supervised for a few hours until full recovery.
General Anesthesia
Some kids may not be able to tolerate treatment awake or may require extensive dental work. In these cases, general anesthesia may be suggested. The child is completely “asleep” and will have no memory of the procedure. All treatments are completed at once. For the best care for your child, our team goes to an outpatient general anesthesia clinic: AGM Clinique d’Anesthésie. https://cliniqueagm.com/en
Your specialist in pediatric dentistry
DMD, MSc, FRCD(c), Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Rita-Maria Chami obtained a doctorate in dentistry at the University of Montreal in 2017. After finishing her dental degree, she then pursued a one-year multidisciplinary residency program at the Montreal Children’s Hospital at McGill University, during which she was able to broaden her competencies and confirm her interest in the treatment of children.
Dr. Chami went on to complete her 3 year specialty training at the University of Toronto, where she was also awarded a Master of Science degree. She is a Fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada and is a member of both the Canadian and American Academies of Pediatric Dentistry.
After the completion of her training, Dr Chami returned to practice in her hometown of Montreal. She is now a clinical professor at the Montreal Children’s Hospital, as well as a guest lecturer at McGill University’s faculty of dentistry.
As a pediatric dentist, Dr Chami’s goal is to provide a pleasant dental experience for her patients and their families. She aims to provide the best care in a comfortable environment so that every child can leave with a smile on their face after their appointment!
In her free time, Dr Chami enjoys being outdoors and spending time with her friends and family. She also likes trying new restaurants and baking new recipes.
Dr. Rita-Maria Chami is a member of the following dental associations:
