Do you get the jitters just thinking about a dental appointment? Have you ever postponed a visit because fear took over? Maybe you’ve experienced dental trauma in the past and find it hard to even relax in the chair. If any of this sounds familiar, Downtown Dental Associates is here to help with sedation dentistry in Portland.
Dr. Jake Becker, our trusted downtown Portland dentist offering sedation, has over 15 years of experience helping patients feel comfortable, cared for and safe. With his kind chair-side manner and specialized training—including Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification and ongoing continuing education in sedation in dentistry—Dr. Becker ensures every patient receives the best possible care in a calm, supportive environment.
What Is Sedation Dentistry?
A safe and effective technique to help your body relax more completely during dental treatment, sedation dentistry can range from minimal sedation, where you remain awake and relaxed, to general anesthesia, where you are in a sleep-like state. When your body is relaxed, the local anesthesia becomes even more effective, and your muscles are less likely to stiffen or become sore from sitting too long. Sedation also helps reduce the sensation of time passing, making longer, complex treatments feel much quicker.
Our Dental Sedation Methods
At Downtown Dental Associates, we believe that everyone deserves a positive dental experience with dentists that will put you to sleep. That’s why we offer three different methods of sedation to meet your individual needs:
- Nitrous Oxide (“Laughing Gas”). For patients who need a mild, quick-acting option, nitrous oxide is a wonderful choice. It’s inhaled through a small mask and helps you feel light, relaxed, and less sensitive to discomfort. Best of all, after your treatment, we’ll give you oxygen to clear out the nitrous effects — and you’ll be fully alert and able to drive yourself home.
- Oral Conscious Sedation (OCS). If you need deeper relaxation, oral conscious sedation might be the answer. Taken as a pill before your appointment, OCS helps you feel drowsy but awake, meaning you can respond to questions but remain in a calm, dreamy state. Many patients barely remember their treatment afterward, making this a popular choice for those with dental anxiety or past trauma. If you’re searching for dentists that offer sedation that truly calms your nerves, this might be perfect for you.
- IV Sedation. This option is ideal for patients needing a quick, deep sense of calm. The medication is administered directly into your bloodstream, creating an almost sleep-like experience. Many patients feel like they slept through their entire procedure. Afterward, you’ll likely feel a little groggy for a few hours, so you’ll need a friend or family member to drive you home.
Safety First, Always
Whether you choose nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation, rest assured that sedation is always closely monitored by our experienced team. Our goal is simple: to make sure you feel safe, relaxed, and cared for at every moment.
IV Sedation Dentists Help You Feel at Home
When it comes to finding dentists that do sedation, trust matters. At Downtown Dental Associates, Dr. Jake Becker and our team specialize in helping even the most anxious patients feel at ease. We’re proud to be among the dentists that will put you to sleep safely, comfortably, and with the utmost compassion.
Whether you’re looking for dentists that offer sedation for your next cleaning, or you need sedation at the dentist for a more complex procedure, we’re here to create a worry-free experience.
You deserve dental care that feels comfortable, calm, and supportive. Ready to experience a better way to smile? Contact us today to learn more about sedation dentistry in Portland and how we can help you feel right at home.