Say goodbye to pain and anxiety
We understand that getting dental treatment can be frightening for kids and parents alike, but don’t worry — we’re here to help! Our office works with sedation and anesthesia specifically designed for children, making it comfortable and safe for them to receive treatment for cavities and other dental issues.
Dr. Gonzalez prioritizes your child’s well-being and offers safe treatments under general anesthesia at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital. Our goal is to ensure that both you and your child have a pain-free and anxiety-free dental experience.
What to expect — Hear from Dr. Gonzalez!
Sedation Services
General Anesthesia
at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital
Local
Anesthesia
Nitrous
Oxide
Other dental services to keep your family smiling
- Restorative treatments
- Check-ups & cleanings
- X-rays for children
- Medical management of cavities
1. Initial Consultation
Dr. Astrid will carefully assess your child’s medical background and examine their oral condition to develop a customized treatment plan.
2. Pre-OP Appointment
In case your child requires treatment involving general anesthesia, you will have a meeting with Mariane, our dedicated OR coordinator. Remember to bring your medical insurance card!
3. Treatment
If your child is scheduled for a surgical procedure, Dr. Astrid will meet with you both before and after the operation to discuss the particulars of your child’s treatment in detail.
4. Follow-Up Care
Our commitment to your child’s oral health doesn’t end with the treatment. We will work closely with you to ensure the prevention of future cavities, scheduling regular cleanings and exams every six months to monitor their progress.
We are here for you and your child
Over the years, Dr. Gonzalez has been privileged to assist hundreds of children across northern Florida in achieving healthy smiles, and now she’s excited to extend that same care and expertise to your family. At Tiny Teeth of Tally, we’re committed to providing exceptional dental care that is both compassionate and effective. Let us help your child enjoy a pain-free and healthy life full of smiles!
Is your child undergoing surgery? What you need to know
- We'll gladly provide a school excuse for your child at the hospital.
- The staff at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital will personally reach out to you the day before the surgery to inform you about the specific arrival time.
- If your child isn't feeling well on the day of the surgery, just come to the hospital at the scheduled time. The anesthesiologist will evaluate your child's condition and might suggest rescheduling the procedure if needed.
- Feel free to give your child acetaminophen (Tylenol®️) or Ibuprofen (Advil®️, Motrin®️) after the surgery. Follow the instructions on the bottle, considering your child's age and weight.
Remember, we’re here to make the experience as pleasant as possible for you and your child. If you have any further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to let us know!
“The office is super cute and very kid-friendly. They are awesome with regular cleanings and even dental work! Would definitely recommend Tiny Teeth!”
“Wow! The Dr. and her staff are amazing. Being our toddler’s first dental appointment, it was an amazing, comfortable, and reassuring visit.”
“This was our 4-year-old’s first visit to the dentist and I couldn’t have pictured a better experience. She can’t wait to go back! Thank you!”
Answers to your questions
What will happen during my child’s initial consultation?
The purpose of the consultation is to examine your child in person and submit the necessary authorizations your insurance requires, so make sure to bring your medical insurance card.
During your appointment, Dr. Astrid will assess whether having your child’s dental decay treated under general anesthesia at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital is the best option for your family.
Dr. Astrid will review your child’s medical history and examine their mouth. If you haven’t already sent us x-rays from a recent dental appointment, we’ll try to take them. Dr. Astrid may recommend a fluoride treatment after the examination.
How should I prepare my child for surgery?
- Don’t eat before the surgery. Patients must not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before their procedure. Due to safety concerns, we won’t be able to treat your child if they don’t come fasting.
- Bring a change of clothes. Bring an extra set of clothes for your child, just in case of an accident!
- Be flexible. Often, we don’t know the exact treatment needs of a child until he or she is sedated, so be prepared for changes to the original treatment plan. This means your child may be seen sooner or later than expected.
- Come healthy. If your child is sick on the day of the procedure or has congestion in the lungs or throat, let us know the day before. Come to your scheduled appointment so your child may be evaluated by the anesthesiologist, and be prepared for your child’s surgery to be rescheduled.
- Brush very well. In the weeks leading up to your child’s surgery, make sure to take special care brushing their teeth, especially around the gum lines. Do an excellent job at removing the plaque the night before, but don’t brush your child’s teeth the morning of the procedure.
- Bring toys. Bring toys or games to keep your child entertained while waiting for their procedure.
- Be patient. Expect your visit to take between 4-5 hours.
What should I expect on the day of the surgery?
- To be at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital for several hours.
- To speak to Dr. Astrid before and after the procedure.
- To speak with the anesthesiologist before your child’s surgery.
- To receive detailed written and verbal post-op instructions.
- Your child’s mouth to be numb after their surgery.
What will happen during the surgery?
Once the patient is asleep, Dr. Astrid will take x-rays of their teeth. She will then complete the treatment.
What is recovery like?
Kids bounce back quickly. Most of them only require Tylenol and/or Ibuprofen after their procedure. We recommend soft foods for the first few days after surgery, especially their first few meals.
To ensure your child’s comfort, we often use a local anesthetic to numb their mouth. The numbing sensation typically lasts for 2-4 hours. Please keep an eye on your little one to make sure they don’t accidentally bite, scratch, or hurt their cheeks, lips, or tongue during this time.
Is sedation dentistry safe for my child?
We’ll review your child’s medical history at the time of the initial consultation to ensure we are proceeding with the safest option for your child.
What insurances do you accept?
We currently accept most insurances.
Effective November 1st 2023, We will be an out-of-network provider for the following plans: Humana, Cigna, Aetna, Ameritas, Sun Life Financial, Principal, Guardian
Tiny Teeth of Tally will operate as an out-of-network provider for these plans. To ensure prompt attention to your child’s dental needs, full payment is expected at the time of the appointment.
Payment options include: Cash, Checks, Credit cards, Coming soon: Sunbit
Call the office for more information.
Why Tiny Teeth of Tally?
Our care doesn’t stop at surgery. We will:
- Continue to see your child every 6 months for their regular cleanings and exams.
- Continue to work with your family to help prevent future decay.
Are parents allowed in the room during the procedure?
No. Only pertinent dental/medical staff are allowed in the operating room in order to comply with various standards hospitals are held accountable for.
Does the parent or guardian need to remain at the surgery center for the procedure?
Yes. Parents should accompany their children both before and after the procedure. During the surgery, they will wait in the waiting area.
Give your child a healthy smile
Going to the dentist shouldn’t be difficult or stressful. Our team is here to help your child get the dental care that they deserve so they can eat, sleep, and go to school without pain.
Meet your child’s dentist in Tallahassee
Hours
