Learn more about pain-free shots at Pine Tree Pediatric Dentistry.
Some children need more than a gentle voice and a sticker to get through a dental visit. Whether your child feels overwhelming anxiety at the thought of sitting in the dental chair, has a complex treatment plan, or simply has difficulty staying still during longer procedures, sedation dentistry can make all the difference. For Tigard families searching for a pediatric sedation dentist who puts safety and comfort first, finding the right provider means finding a team trained to work with young patients at every developmental stage.
At Pine Tree Pediatric Dentistry, we welcome children from Tigard and surrounding communities throughout the Portland metro area. Our team provides pediatric sedation dentistry in a warm, child-friendly environment designed to help kids feel safe from the moment they walk through the door. We understand that no two children are the same, which is why we take the time to evaluate each child individually before recommending any type of sedation for their dental care.
Dental anxiety is one of the most common reasons children avoid or struggle with dental care. For some kids, past negative experiences create lasting fear. For others, sensory sensitivities or medical conditions make it difficult to tolerate routine procedures. Sedation dentistry helps bridge that gap by allowing children to receive the treatment they need in a relaxed, controlled setting.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry outlines detailed guidelines for safely monitoring pediatric patients before, during, and after sedation. These protocols help ensure that every child receives care in the safest possible manner. At our office, we follow these established standards closely and evaluate each child’s health history, age, and treatment needs before determining the best approach.
Sedation is not always the first step, though. For many cooperative children, nitrous oxide is a helpful option that allows them to stay calm while remaining fully aware. We believe in using the least invasive method that will help your child feel comfortable, and we discuss every option with parents so you can make informed decisions together.
Our practice provides several levels of sedation to meet the unique needs of each child. Understanding what each type involves can help Tigard parents feel more confident about their child’s upcoming visit.
Often called “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is a mild form of sedation delivered through a small mask placed over your child’s nose. It helps reduce anxiety and discomfort while your child remains awake and responsive. The effects wear off quickly, and most children can return to their normal activities the same day.
For children who need a deeper level of relaxation, oral conscious sedation may be recommended. Your child takes a prescribed medication before the appointment, which helps them feel drowsy and calm throughout the procedure. While sedated, your child can still respond to verbal cues and breathe on their own.
In some cases, general anesthesia may be the safest and most effective option. Dr. Tesha Waggoner maintains privileges at Providence St. Vincent Hospital, allowing us to provide dental treatment under general anesthesia in a fully equipped hospital setting for children who require it. This is often recommended for very young children, those with extensive treatment needs, or children with certain medical or behavioral considerations.
Preparing your child for a sedation visit does not have to be stressful. We recommend keeping the conversation simple and positive. Avoid going into too much detail about the procedure, as this can sometimes increase anxiety rather than ease it. Parents are encouraged to call our office ahead of time with any questions, and we also offer social stories that provide a picture walkthrough of what your child can expect during their visit.
On the day of the appointment, our team will review your child’s medical history, go over fasting instructions if applicable, and walk you through the entire process. We encourage parents to be a “silent observer or helper” during treatment. Our trained team handles the distraction and coping techniques so your child can focus on the care they are receiving without feeling overwhelmed by too many voices.
After the procedure, we monitor your child until they meet all discharge criteria. We provide detailed post-operative instructions so you know exactly what to expect during recovery at home.
For children who feel anxious or fearful about dental visits, Dr. Tesha Waggoner, DMD, offers compassionate pediatric sedation dentistry in Tigard that puts both kids and parents at ease. With her pediatric dental residency from Oregon Health and Science University (2018) and hospital privileges at Providence St. Vincent Hospital for general anesthesia cases, Dr. T has the specialized training to make even the most apprehensive child feel safe and comfortable throughout their care. She is an active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and lives in Portland with her husband Tony, son Bruce, and their two labradoodles, CJ and Meyers.
Sedation dentistry is particularly valuable for children with autism, sensory processing differences, or other conditions that make traditional dental visits challenging. Our office is designed with these children in mind, offering helpful tools such as weighted blankets, low lighting, and the ability to watch a movie during treatment. We also have two in-office dogs, Meyers and CJ, who are great with children of all abilities and help create a calming atmosphere.
Every child deserves access to quality dental care, regardless of their comfort level or abilities. Sedation allows us to provide thorough, safe treatment while minimizing stress for both the child and their family.
Tigard families looking for a pediatric sedation dentist can count on Dr. Tesha Waggoner and the Pine Tree Pediatric Dentistry team. Dr. Waggoner earned her doctorate of dental medicine from Oregon Health and Science University and completed her pediatric dentistry training at OHSU in 2018. She is a board-certified pediatric dentist and a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, and the Oregon Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
Whether your child needs a routine cleaning with a little extra support or a more involved procedure under sedation, we are here to help your family feel confident and cared for every step of the way. Contact our office to learn more about our sedation options or to schedule your child’s appointment today.
