Nitrous oxide, often called "laughing gas," is a safe and gentle way to help your child relax during dental visits. We use it because it’s fast-acting and easily adjusted, allowing your child to stay calm. The effects wear off within minutes after the procedure, so your child can return to their normal activities immediately. With decades of use in pediatric dentistry, nitrous oxide is a well-established and trusted option, providing an stress-free experience while ensuring your child’s safety.

IV sedation is a safe and effective option we use for children who need more extensive dental work or have higher levels of anxiety. Administered via an IV, this type sedation allows your child to enter a deeply relaxed state, like a light nap. This method is carefully controlled and monitored by our experienced team to ensure your child’s safety throughout the procedure. IV sedation is especially helpful for longer treatments, younger patients, or for children who have special needs, providing a calm and comfortable experience while we take care of their dental health.

For children who need extensive dental treatment, have special health considerations, or due to their age are unable to receive treatment in our office setting, general anesthesia (GA) provides a safe and effective way to ensure their comfort and well-being. With general anesthesia, your child will be fully asleep during the procedure, allowing us to complete complex treatments without causing any distress or discomfort. Dr. Rich, who has extensive experience with GA from his time at Shriners Children's Hospital in Honolulu, is highly qualified to provide this level of care. He also holds privileges at Benefis Hospital in Great Falls and the Montana Surgery Center in Helena.

At Mountain View Pediatric Dentistry, we have a fully equipped surgery center and operating room right here in our building, where we can safely administer general anesthesia when needed. This means your child can receive all the care they need in a familiar and trusted environment, under the supervision of a highly experienced team dedicated to their safety and comfort.