SEDATION
DENTISTRY
Sedation Options
For some children, achieving this goal may require a form of sedation. During your consultation visit, our doctors will discuss the options available and together we will arrive at a plan that is suitable and individually tailored to your child’s needs. Not every sedation option is suitable for every child.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide/oxygen is a mild sedative delivered through a small mask that fits comfortably over your child’s nose. As your child breathes in the gas, they’ll begin to feel calm, relaxed, and sometimes even a little giggly – which is why it’s nicknamed laughing gas. But in our experience, not all kids actually laugh.
This option:
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Eases anxiety and fear, making the appointment smoother for everyone
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Raises the pain threshold, so your child feels less discomfort during treatment
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Takes effect quickly and wears off within minutes after the gas is stopped
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Is extremely safe and well-tolerated by children of all ages
- Helps to suppress gagging which really helps children tolerate procedures
Because nitrous oxide doesn’t put children to sleep, they remain awake and able to communicate throughout the visit. Once the procedure is done, your child breathes pure oxygen for a few minutes to clear the gas from their system – leaving no lingering effects.
Nitrous oxide is a gentle way to help children feel more at ease and build positive dental experiences from a young age.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation is a helpful option for children who are especially anxious or unable to tolerate dental treatment while awake. It involves giving your child a small dose of medication by mouth to help them relax before the procedure begins.
Here’s what parents should know:
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Reduces fear and anxiety while keeping your child more calm and cooperative
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Medication is given by mouth and may cause drowsiness or light sleep, though some children remain awake
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Common medications include Midazolam and Triazolam – both are safe, reversible, and from the same family as Ativan or Valium
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Used only after a full assessment, and always under strict safety and monitoring protocols
Oral sedation does not put your child fully to sleep like general anesthesia. Instead, it creates a more relaxed state that makes dental treatment easier and more comfortable.
Our team will review everything with you beforehand – including what to expect, how to prepare, and how to care for your child after the appointment.
General Anesthesia
hen a child has multiple cavities or extensive dental treatment needs, general anesthesia can be the safest and most effective way to complete care. This option is especially helpful for younger children who may not be able to sit through multiple appointments or tolerate in-office procedures while awake.
General anesthesia allows your child to sleep comfortably while a team of certified medical anesthesiologists provides sedation and closely monitors them throughout the visit.
Benefits of General Anesthesia:
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Ideal for children with significant treatment needs
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All dental work is completed in one appointment
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Your child is fully asleep – they won’t see, feel, or remember the procedure
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No pain, fear, or stress during the experience
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Atraumatic and efficient, helping set the stage for better future dental visits
- Excellent clinical outcomes because our dental team can focus on the technical aspects of procedures without worrying about cooperation or behaviour.
We typically recommend this option when in-office sedation isn’t suitable or when the volume of treatment would otherwise require several appointments. Our team will guide you through the entire process – from consultation and preparation to aftercare – to ensure a safe, smooth experience for both you and your child.
