In-Office Sedation for Children — PDG Dental

Child smiling at dentist with nitrous oxide mask, mother beside her

PDG Dental — In-Office Pediatric Sedation

Is In-Office Sedation Right for Your Child?

Gentle, safe, and effective — helping children feel calm and relaxed while remaining fully awake and responsive throughout their appointment.

Book a Consultation Call 604-PDG-1000

Dentist smiling with young child in dental chair

Overview

What Is Minimal Sedation?

Minimal sedation is a gentle method used to reduce anxiety and help children feel more comfortable during dental care. Children stay awake, breathe on their own, and can respond to instructions — but feel more relaxed and less worried.

This type of sedation is commonly used for:

Dental anxiety or fear
Young children who may have challenges sitting calmly for extended periods of time
Sensitive gag reflexes
Longer or more complex dental procedures
Children with special healthcare needs

Child smiling with nitrous oxide mask being placed by dentist

Nitrous Oxide ("Laughing Gas")

Nitrous oxide is a safe, mild sedative mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a small nose mask. It helps children feel calm, light, and relaxed during treatment — while staying fully awake and responsive.

Fast-acting & gentle Wears off quickly Child stays awake Minimal side effects Safe for most patients

Pre-Op Instructions — Nitrous Oxide

→ Nothing to eat 3 hours prior to appointment
→ Only clear liquids 1 hour before appointment
→ Most children return to normal activities shortly after their visit

Dentist talking with child in dental chair, mother smiling in background

Oral Sedation

For children who need additional relaxation support, oral sedation may be recommended. This medication is given by mouth before the procedure to help reduce anxiety and improve comfort.

Children remain awake but may feel sleepy or deeply relaxed. Our team carefully monitors your child throughout the appointment to ensure safety at all times.

Safety Is Our Priority

During treatment, we continuously monitor:

Breathing
Heart rate
Oxygen levels
Comfort and responsiveness

We also provide parents with detailed instructions before and after the appointment. Children should go straight home and relax on the couch.

Pre-Op Instructions — Oral Sedation

→ Nothing to eat 6 hours prior to appointment
→ Only clear liquids 1 hour before appointment
→ Children should go straight home and relax on the couch

⚠ NO SCHOOL or ACTIVITIES on the day of the appointment

Combination Sedation (Nitrous Oxide + Oral Sedation)

For some children with higher anxiety levels or more extensive treatment needs, a combination of oral sedation and nitrous oxide may be recommended. This approach can provide an added level of relaxation while still allowing your child to remain awake and responsive.

Combination sedation may help:

Reduce fear and anxiety more effectively
Improve comfort during longer appointments
Help children who have difficulty tolerating treatment
Create a more positive dental experience

Children should go straight home and relax on the couch.

Pre-Op Instructions — Combo Sedation

→ Nothing to eat 6 hours prior to appointment
→ Only clear liquids 1 hour before appointment
→ Children should go straight home and relax on the couch

⚠ NO SCHOOL or ACTIVITIES on the day of the appointment

Process

What to Expect at the Appointment

Our team makes every step smooth and reassuring for you and your child.

Consultation

We confirm your child is a good candidate and recommend the best sedation approach for their needs.

Preparation

You receive detailed pre-op instructions to follow before arriving for a safe and smooth visit.

Treatment

Sedation is administered and your child's vitals are continuously monitored throughout the procedure.

Recovery

We provide post-visit instructions. Nitrous wears off quickly; oral sedation requires rest at home.

Mother and child arriving at dental clinic, greeted by staff

Preparing for Your Visit

How to Prepare for a Sedation Appointment

To help ensure a safe and smooth visit, please follow these guidelines before arriving.

Follow all eating and drinking instructions carefully
Inform us about any medications or health changes
Arrive early for your appointment
Have a parent or guardian remain available during the visit

Patient Forms

Download Your Pre & Post-Op Instructions

Please download and review the instructions for your child's sedation appointment. It is important for your child's safety that these are followed carefully.

Nitrous Oxide

Pre & Post-Op Instructions

Oral Sedation & Combo

Pre & Post-Op Instructions

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions About Sedation?

Here are some of the most common questions parents ask us.

No. With minimal sedation, children remain awake and able to respond to our team's instructions. They simply feel calmer, more relaxed, and less anxious — making the appointment much more comfortable for everyone.

Yes. When administered by trained professionals and used appropriately, minimal sedation is considered very safe for pediatric dental care. Our team follows strict safety protocols and continuously monitors your child throughout the entire appointment.

Recovery time depends on the type of sedation used. Nitrous oxide wears off very quickly — most children return to normal activities shortly after their visit. Oral sedation or combination sedation may require additional rest at home. Sedation effects can last up to 4–5 hours after the appointment, so no school or activities that day.

Our team will assess your child at a consultation appointment. We take into account their age, anxiety level, the type and length of treatment required, and any special healthcare needs before recommending the best option.

Happy child giving thumbs up with dentist and mother after appointment

Our Commitment

Compassionate Care for Every Child

We understand that every child is different. Our goal is to create positive dental experiences in a calm, supportive environment while helping children receive the care they need comfortably and confidently.

If you have questions about sedation options or would like to schedule a consultation, our team is happy to help.

Ready to Book?

Call us to make your appointment and give your child a calm, comfortable dental experience with the PDG team.

Book an Appointment Online Call 604-PDG-1000