Are you nervous about visiting the dentist? You’re not alone. About 75% of adults feel some anxiety about dental visits.
At Mattson Hellickson Dental in Beaverton, we understand these feelings and offer sedation dentistry to help you relax during your treatment.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry uses special medicines to help patients feel calm and comfortable during dental procedures. Whether you have mild nerves or serious dental fear, we have options to make your visit easier.
Our caring team is equipped to provide safe conscious sedation that helps turn stressful appointments into comfortable experiences.
Who Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry might be right for you if you:
- Feel anxious or fearful about dental visits
- Have sensitive teeth or a strong gag reflex
- Need multiple or lengthy procedures
- Have trouble sitting still for long periods
- Had negative dental experiences in the past
- Have special needs that make dental care challenging
Conscious Sedation at Mattson Hellickson Dental
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
This mild form of sedation helps you relax while staying fully awake. We place a small mask over your nose, and you breathe in a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen. You’ll feel the effects within minutes – a warm, pleasant feeling of calm.
The best part? The effects wear off quickly after your treatment. You can drive yourself home and return to normal activities right away.
Oral Sedation
For patients with more significant anxiety, we offer oral sedation. You’ll take a prescribed pill before your appointment. This creates deeper relaxation than laughing gas. You’ll still be awake but very calm and may not remember much about your treatment afterward.
For your safety, you’ll need someone to drive you to and from your appointment if you choose oral sedation.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Yes, sedation dentistry is very safe when provided by trained professionals, such as our team at Mattson Hellickson Dental. Before recommending any type of sedation, we’ll review your medical history, current medications, and discuss any concerns you might have.
During sedation, we monitor your vital signs carefully to ensure your complete safety throughout your procedure. Our priority is providing effective dental care in the most comfortable, secure environment possible.
What to Expect with Sedation Dentistry
Before Your Appointment
Our team will give you detailed instructions to prepare for your sedation appointment. These may include:
- Fasting guidelines (not eating or drinking for a certain period)
- Medication adjustments if needed
- Arranging for someone to drive you home (for oral or IV sedation)
During Your Visit
When you arrive at Mattson Hellickson Dental, we’ll help you get comfortable and administer your chosen form of sedation. Once you’re relaxed, Dr. Mattson or Dr. Hellickson will complete your dental work while you remain calm and comfortable.
After Your Procedure
Your recovery depends on the type of sedation you received:
- With nitrous oxide, you’ll feel normal within minutes
- With oral sedation, you may feel drowsy for several hours
- You might not remember much about your procedure
- You should rest for the remainder of the day
Take the First Step Toward Comfortable Dental Care
Don’t let fear keep you from having the healthy smile you deserve. Our sedation dentistry options can help make dental care a positive experience for even the most anxious patients.
Contact our dental care team in Beaverton at 503-308-7664 today to discuss how sedation dentistry might be right for you. You can also request an appointment online. We’re committed to providing gentle, compassionate care that meets your unique needs.
