Sedation Dentistry

A Calmer Way to Care:
Sedation Dentist, Portland

A Calmer
Way to Care:
Sedation Dentist,
Portland

If visiting the dentist makes you feel uneasy, you’re not alone—and you’re not “difficult” for feeling that way. With dental sedation in Portland, OR, at Pacific Woods Dental, we help you feel peaceful and grounded, no matter the procedure. Even the most anxious patients can breathe a little easier.

Oral Conscious Sedation
Helps You Feel Safe

Oral Conscious
Sedation Helps You
Feel Safe

With this method of sedation dentistry, you’ll take a pill before your appointment, helping you feel deeply relaxed but still awake. By the time you’re in the chair at our Raleigh Hills dental practice, the stresses of the day begin to fade, leaving you clear-headed yet calm. 

We take your safety seriously. That’s why we’ll go over your medical history, explain exactly how the process works, and monitor you throughout your visit. You’re always in capable hands.

Dental Visits Don’t
Have to Be Difficult

Dental Visits Don’t
Have to Be
Difficult

Sedation dentistry isn’t just about taking the edge off—it opens the door to a more confident relationship with your oral health. Here’s how it can make a difference:
  • Ease Dental Anxiety: From mild unease to deep-seated phobias, sedation helps you relax to get the care you need. 
  • Minimize Discomfort: Whether you’re worried about needles, sensitivity, or time in the chair, sedation helps take the pressure off. 
  • Perfect for Lengthy Appointments: Need multiple procedures done or one longer one, like a root canal? Time will fly by. 
  • Support for Strong Gag Reflexes: If the thought of tools at the back of your mouth makes you cringe, sedation is the perfect ally.
  • Access to Dental Care: If you have difficulty sitting still or have special needs, sedation creates a gentle environment.

FAQs: A Field Guide
to Dental Sedation

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Are sedation dentistry and sleep dentistry the same thing?

They’re often used interchangeably. Sedation dentistry generally keeps you awake and responsive but relaxed. Sleep dentistry, on the other hand, usually refers to methods like general anesthesia, where you’re completely asleep.  

Compared to nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedation provides a deeper level of relaxation. And unlike IV sedation, it doesn’t require needles. It’s a great in-between option.  

Typically, we use benzodiazepines, which calm the central nervous system. These are safe, carefully administered medications trusted by dental and medical professionals worldwide.  

No, with oral conscious sedation, you’re still awake and can respond to questions or instructions. At the same time, many patients have little memory of their procedure, which is an added perk if you’re nervous.  

Why Our Patients
Keep Coming Back

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Small Practice, Big Impact

Our tight-knit team is passionate about delivering one-on-one attention and meticulous care that makes a real difference in your health.

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Care That Feels Like Home

We’re here to build lifelong relationships with thoughtful, gentle care that always puts your well-being first.

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Welcoming to All

With multilingual staff and a focus on inclusivity, we’re proud to welcome every patient into a clean, comfortable, and diverse environment.

Helping You Feel Safe
in the Chair Again

Helping You Feel
Safe in the
Chair Again

If fear, anxiety, or past experiences have made dental visits feel overwhelming, know that dental sedation in Portland, OR, can offer a different way forward. You deserve care that meets you where you are. When you’re ready, Pacific Woods Dental will be here.