😴 Sleepy Sea

Comfort options, explained

Some kids breeze through. Some need help. Both are completely normal — and we have a safe option for each of them.

Three levels

From giggly to fully asleep

We always start with the lightest option that will work, and we decide together with you.

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Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

Best for: Mild nerves, wiggly kids, routine fillings

A sweet-smelling gas breathed through a little nose mask. Your child stays fully awake and can talk with us the whole time — everything just feels lighter and floatier. We switch it off at the end and the effects wear away within minutes, so they can head straight back to school.

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Oral Sedation

Best for: Bigger nerves, younger kids, longer appointments

A prescribed medication taken before the appointment that makes your child drowsy and relaxed. They may drift in and out and often remember very little of the visit. We monitor them closely throughout, and they'll need a quiet afternoon at home afterward.

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IV Sedation

Best for: Extensive treatment, significant anxiety, special needs

The deepest level we offer, delivered and monitored with full safety protocols so a large amount of treatment can be completed in a single, comfortable appointment instead of many stressful ones.

Before & after

What parents need to plan for

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Follow the fasting rules

For oral and IV sedation we'll give you specific instructions about eating and drinking beforehand. These aren't optional — they're a safety requirement.

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We monitor the whole time

Vital signs are tracked continuously by trained staff for every sedation appointment.

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Plan a quiet day

After oral or IV sedation, your child will be sleepy and unsteady. No school, no sports, and an adult stays with them.

Talk to us about comfort options

Or call (503) 582-8200 — we'll help you figure out what fits.