Sedation Dentistry in Portland, MI 

Intravenous Sedation (“Twilight Sedation”)

Our office offers our patients the option of Intravenous Sedation, also referred to as Dental Intravenous Anesthesia, or “Twilight Sedation,” for their dental treatment. 

This type of sedation is designed to better enable you to undergo your dental procedures, keeping you calm and relaxed throught the whole procedure. If you choose the option of intravenous sedation your IV sedation/anesthesia is administered and monitored by our team, therefore eliminating the costly expense of having your treatment carried out in an operating room or same-day surgical facility.

How is the IV Sedation Administered?

IV Sedation is administered through a thin needle into a vein in your arm or hand. The needle will be attached to an intravenous tube through which medication will be given to help you relax and stay comfortable through the procedure. At times a patient’s vein may not be able to sustain a needle for the length of the procedure and in this case, the medications will be administered and the needle will be retrieved. Both scenarios will achieve the same desired level of conscious sedation. The goal of IV sedation is to use as little medication as possible to get the treatment completed. With IV sedation, a constant “drip” is maintained via the intravenous tube. At any time, an antidote can be administered to reverse the effects of the medications. 

Nitrous Oxide (“Laughing Gas”)

For patients who prefer a lighter form of relaxation, we also offer nitrous oxide, commonly known as “laughing gas.” This safe and gentle sedation option is inhaled through a small mask placed over the nose and helps ease feelings of anxiety while keeping you fully awake and aware during your procedure. The calming effects are felt within minutes and wear off quickly once the mask is removed, allowing most patients to resume their normal activities right after treatment. Nitrous oxide is an excellent choice for both children and adults who want to feel more comfortable in the dental chair without lingering drowsiness.

Sedation Dentistry for the Fearful

Dental phobia is a real, often overwhelming reality for thousands of people. Negative previous dental experiences, fear of needles or drills, and severe gag reflexes are just some of the reasons people feel extreme anxiety when thinking about visiting the dentist. At Portland Dentistry by Design, we are committed to understanding you and your needs. With the help of IV sedation, you will be able to fully relax well and our team delivers the results you deserve.