Sedation Dentistry in Hillsboro, Oregon

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Comfortable, Anxiety-Free Dental Care at East Wind Dental Care

At East Wind Dental Care in Hillsboro, Oregon, Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) understands that dental anxiety is a real and significant concern for many patients. For some, the fear of dental treatment is so overwhelming that they avoid necessary care, leading to deteriorating oral health. We offer safe, effective sedation dentistry options to help anxious patients receive the dental care they need in complete comfort.

Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. Depending on the level of sedation used, patients may feel drowsy, deeply relaxed, or barely aware of the procedure, while still being able to respond to instructions and maintain normal breathing.

Understanding Your Sedation Options

We offer multiple levels of sedation to meet the diverse needs of our patients. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) will discuss your medical history, anxiety level, and treatment needs to recommend the most appropriate sedation option.

Nitrous Oxide Sedation (Laughing Gas)

Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is the mildest form of sedation and one of the safest sedatives available in dentistry. This colorless, slightly sweet-smelling gas has been used in dental practices for over 150 years.

How It Works: Nitrous oxide is mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a small, comfortable mask that fits over your nose. Within minutes, you’ll begin to feel relaxed and calm. You remain fully conscious, can respond to questions and instructions, and can breathe normally on your own.

Benefits of Nitrous Oxide:

• Takes effect quickly, usually within 2-3 minutes
• Creates a pleasant feeling of relaxation and well-being
• Reduces anxiety and fear
• Raises pain threshold, making procedures more comfortable
• Helps control gag reflex
• Effects are easily adjusted during the procedure
• Wears off completely within minutes after the mask is removed
• You can drive yourself home after your appointment
• No needles or pills required
• Excellent safety record spanning more than a century

Ideal For: Patients with mild to moderate anxiety, those with a sensitive gag reflex, patients undergoing routine procedures like fillings or cleanings, children and adults alike, and anyone who wants to feel more relaxed during dental treatment.

What to Expect: You’ll remain awake and aware during the procedure but will feel deeply relaxed and unconcerned about what’s happening. Many patients describe a pleasant, light-headed feeling or a sense of floating. After the procedure, once the mask is removed, the effects dissipate within 3-5 minutes, and you can resume normal activities immediately.

Oral Conscious Sedation

Oral conscious sedation uses prescription medication taken by mouth to induce a deeper state of relaxation than nitrous oxide. While you remain conscious and can respond to verbal cues, you’ll be in a drowsy, dream-like state and will have little to no memory of the procedure.

How It Works: You take a prescribed sedative medication, typically from the benzodiazepine family, about one hour before your appointment. The medication induces a state of deep relaxation and drowsiness. You’ll need someone to drive you to and from your appointment, as the effects can last several hours.

Levels of Oral Sedation: The dosage can be adjusted to provide minimal, moderate, or deep sedation depending on your needs. With minimal sedation, you’re drowsy but easily awakened. With moderate sedation, you may slur words when speaking and have little memory of the procedure. Some patients fall asleep under moderate sedation but can be awakened with gentle stimulation.

Benefits of Oral Conscious Sedation:

• Produces significant anxiety relief
• Creates amnesia effect so you remember little of the procedure
• Allows dentist to complete more treatment in a single visit
• No needles required for sedation administration
• Suitable for longer, more complex procedures
• More profound relaxation than nitrous oxide
• Cost-effective compared to IV sedation
• Taken in the comfort of your home or our office

Ideal For: Patients with moderate to severe dental anxiety or phobia, those undergoing lengthy or complex procedures, patients with a strong gag reflex, individuals who have had traumatic dental experiences, patients who need multiple procedures completed in one visit, and those who have difficulty getting numb with local anesthesia.

What to Expect: About an hour after taking the medication, you’ll feel very relaxed and drowsy. You’ll be conscious and able to respond to instructions, but you’ll feel detached from the procedure and unconcerned about what’s happening. Most patients remember little to nothing about the treatment. The drowsy feeling continues for several hours after the procedure, so you must arrange for someone to drive you home and remain with you until the effects fully wear off.

Who Needs Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry benefits a wide range of patients. You might be an excellent candidate for sedation if you experience any of the following:

Dental Anxiety and Fear

Dental anxiety affects an estimated 30-40 percent of the population, ranging from mild nervousness to severe phobia. If you feel anxious, tense, or fearful about dental visits, sedation can help you receive necessary care comfortably.

Mild Anxiety: You feel nervous before appointments and tense during treatment, but you’re able to keep appointments. Nitrous oxide may be sufficient to help you feel calm and relaxed.

Moderate Anxiety: You experience significant stress before and during appointments, may cancel or postpone visits due to anxiety, and have difficulty relaxing in the dental chair. Oral conscious sedation can help you feel deeply relaxed and unconcerned.

Severe Dental Phobia: You avoid dental care altogether due to overwhelming fear, may experience panic attacks at the thought of dental treatment, or have had traumatic dental experiences in the past. Moderate oral sedation provides profound relaxation and amnesia, making treatment possible.

Strong Gag Reflex

A sensitive gag reflex can make dental procedures uncomfortable or even impossible. Simple tasks like taking X-rays, impressions, or working on back teeth can trigger gagging, interfering with treatment.

Sedation, particularly nitrous oxide and oral sedation, significantly reduces the gag reflex, allowing Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) to work efficiently while you remain comfortable.

Difficulty Getting Numb

Some patients require higher doses of local anesthetic to achieve adequate numbness, or they have areas that are difficult to anesthetize completely. Sedation works synergistically with local anesthetic, raising your pain threshold and making procedures more comfortable even when achieving profound numbness is challenging.

Long or Complex Procedures

Procedures that require extended time in the dental chair can be physically and mentally exhausting, even for patients without anxiety. Sedation makes lengthy appointments more comfortable and allows Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) to complete more treatment in fewer visits.

Procedures That Often Benefit from Sedation:

• Multiple fillings or crowns in one visit
• Root canal therapy
• Dental implant placement
• Full mouth reconstruction
• Wisdom teeth extraction
• Extensive periodontal treatment
• Multiple tooth extractions

Physical Limitations

Patients with certain physical conditions may benefit from sedation:

Difficulty Sitting Still: Conditions like Parkinson’s disease, chronic pain, or back problems can make it difficult to remain still and comfortable in the dental chair. Sedation helps you relax and remain comfortable during treatment.

Jaw Problems: TMJ disorders or limited ability to open your mouth for extended periods can be managed more comfortably with sedation.

Special Needs: Patients with developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, or other special needs often benefit significantly from sedation dentistry.

Past Traumatic Experiences

If you’ve had painful or frightening dental experiences in the past, sedation can help you overcome these negative associations and receive the care you need without re-traumatization.

Safety Protocols and Monitoring

Your safety is our top priority. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) follows strict safety protocols established by the American Dental Association and state dental boards for sedation dentistry.

Pre-Sedation Evaluation

Before recommending sedation, Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) conducts a thorough medical history review and evaluation. We discuss:

• Current medications and supplements
• Medical conditions, particularly heart, lung, liver, or kidney problems
• Previous experiences with sedation or anesthesia
• Allergies
• Tobacco, alcohol, or substance use
• Recent illnesses

Certain medical conditions may preclude sedation or require special precautions. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) consults with your physician when necessary to ensure sedation safety.

Monitoring During Sedation

Throughout your procedure, we continuously monitor your vital signs and level of consciousness:

Pulse Oximetry: We monitor your oxygen saturation levels to ensure you’re breathing adequately and receiving sufficient oxygen.

Blood Pressure: We check your blood pressure before, during, and after the procedure.

Heart Rate: We monitor your heart rate continuously during sedation.

Respiratory Rate: We observe your breathing pattern to ensure normal respiration.

Level of Consciousness: We assess your ability to respond to verbal cues and stimulation.

Our team is trained in emergency protocols and equipped to handle any situation that might arise, though complications are extremely rare when proper protocols are followed.

Emergency Preparedness

Our office maintains current emergency equipment and medications. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) and team members maintain current certifications in Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS). We conduct regular emergency drills to ensure readiness.

What to Expect: The Sedation Dentistry Experience

Understanding what to expect helps reduce anxiety and ensures a smooth, comfortable experience.

Before Your Appointment

For Nitrous Oxide:

• Eat normally before your appointment
• Take any regular medications as prescribed
• Wear comfortable clothing
• You can drive yourself to and from the appointment

For Oral Conscious Sedation:

• Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you to and from your appointment and stay with you for several hours after
• Avoid eating for 6 hours before your appointment (small sips of water are acceptable)
• Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before your appointment
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
• Take the prescribed sedative medication as directed, typically one hour before your appointment
• Have someone with you when you take the medication
• Bring a list of all current medications to your appointment

During Your Procedure

With Nitrous Oxide:

• We’ll place a small, comfortable mask over your nose
• Breathe normally through your nose
• Within 2-3 minutes, you’ll feel relaxed and calm
• We’ll administer local anesthetic to ensure complete comfort
• You’ll remain aware of what’s happening but feel unconcerned and relaxed
• The level of sedation can be adjusted throughout the procedure
• Many patients describe a pleasant, floating sensation

With Oral Conscious Sedation:

• You’ll arrive already feeling drowsy from the pre-appointment medication
• We’ll help you get comfortable in the dental chair
• We continuously monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure
• You’ll feel very relaxed, drowsy, and detached from the procedure
• You may fall into a light sleep but can be easily awakened
• We’ll administer local anesthetic to ensure you’re completely comfortable
• Most patients remember little to nothing about the procedure
• Time will seem to pass very quickly

After Your Procedure

With Nitrous Oxide:

• We’ll provide pure oxygen for a few minutes to clear the nitrous oxide from your system
• Effects wear off within 3-5 minutes
• You can drive yourself home and resume normal activities immediately
• Follow any post-procedure care instructions provided

With Oral Conscious Sedation:

• You’ll feel groggy and drowsy for several hours
• Your designated driver will take you home
• You should rest for the remainder of the day
• Do not drive, operate machinery, make important decisions, or care for young children until the next day
• Have someone stay with you until you’re fully alert
• Effects typically wear off within 4-8 hours, though some drowsiness may persist longer
• Follow all post-procedure instructions carefully

Preparation Instructions for Sedation Appointments

Proper preparation ensures a safe, successful sedation experience.

General Guidelines for All Sedation Types

• Inform us of any changes to your health status or medications since your last visit
• Do not consume alcohol for 24 hours before your appointment
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
• Remove contact lenses before the procedure
• Bring a list of current medications and dosages
• Arrive on time; late arrival may require rescheduling
• Inform us immediately if you develop a cold, flu, or other illness before your appointment

Specific Instructions for Oral Conscious Sedation

The Night Before:

• Get a good night’s sleep
• Avoid alcohol completely
• Take your regular medications unless instructed otherwise

The Day of Your Appointment:

• Do not eat solid food for 6 hours before your appointment
• Small sips of water are acceptable
• Take your prescribed sedative medication exactly as directed
• Have someone with you when taking the medication
• Brush your teeth before your appointment
• Do not wear lipstick, makeup, or nail polish
• Leave valuables at home
• Use the restroom before sedation administration

After Your Appointment:

• Have someone drive you home and stay with you for the rest of the day
• Rest and take it easy for the remainder of the day
• Begin with clear liquids and soft foods, advancing to regular diet as tolerated
• Do not drive, drink alcohol, or operate machinery for 24 hours
• Avoid making important decisions until the next day
• Follow all post-procedure care instructions

What Can You Expect During Recovery? and Post-Sedation Care

Recovery from sedation is generally straightforward when you follow the provided instructions.

Immediate Recovery (First Few Hours)

After Nitrous Oxide: You’ll feel normal within minutes and can resume all regular activities immediately.

After Oral Conscious Sedation: You’ll feel drowsy, groggy, and may be unsteady on your feet. You need assistance getting to your vehicle. Once home, rest in a safe environment. Have someone check on you periodically. Avoid stairs if possible or have someone assist you.

First 24 Hours After Oral Sedation

• Rest as much as possible
• Stay hydrated with water and clear fluids
• Eat soft, bland foods as tolerated
• Do not drive or operate machinery
• Avoid alcohol completely
• Do not make important decisions or sign legal documents
• Take pain medication as prescribed if needed
• Apply ice to the outside of your face if swelling occurs
• Follow all specific post-treatment care instructions

When to Contact Our Office

Contact East Wind Dental Care at (503) 614-0198 if you experience:

• Prolonged drowsiness lasting more than 12 hours
• Difficulty breathing
• Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
• Severe nausea or vomiting
• Allergic reaction symptoms (rash, hives, swelling)
• Excessive bleeding from the treatment site
• Severe pain not controlled by prescribed medication
• Fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit

Cost and Insurance Coverage

The cost of sedation dentistry varies based on the type of sedation used and the length of your appointment.

Choosing the right dental practice makes all the difference in your treatment outcome.

Your choice of dentist significantly impacts your results and experience.

Typical Sedation Costs

Nitrous Oxide Sedation: $50-$100 per appointment, depending on the duration of use. This is a flat fee regardless of procedure length for most routine appointments.

Oral Conscious Sedation: $200-$400 per appointment, depending on the dosage and duration of sedation needed. Complex or lengthy procedures may require higher doses and therefore higher costs.

These fees are in addition to the cost of your dental treatment.

Insurance Coverage for Sedation

Insurance coverage for sedation varies significantly by plan. Understanding your benefits helps you plan for out-of-pocket costs.

Medical Necessity: Some insurance plans cover sedation when deemed medically necessary. Conditions that may qualify include severe dental anxiety, strong gag reflex, physical or developmental disabilities, or certain medical conditions.

Limited Coverage: Many plans provide partial coverage for sedation, typically covering a percentage of the cost or a fixed dollar amount.

No Coverage: Some plans exclude sedation coverage entirely, considering it an elective or comfort service. In these cases, you’ll be responsible for the full cost.

Our knowledgeable staff will verify your sedation benefits and provide a clear estimate of your out-of-pocket costs before your appointment. We submit claims on your behalf and help you maximize your benefits.

Making Sedation Affordable

We believe that anxiety should never prevent you from receiving necessary dental care. We offer several options to make sedation dentistry affordable:

• CareCredit financing with interest-free payment plans for qualified patients
• Third-party financing options
• Payment plans for larger treatment costs
• Acceptance of all major credit cards
• Flexible scheduling to maximize insurance benefits across calendar years

Benefits of This Treatment

Choosing the right treatment can significantly impact your oral health and quality of life. Here are the key benefits you can expect:

• Improved Function: Restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence
• Enhanced Aesthetics: Achieve a natural-looking result that complements your smile
• Long-lasting Results: Enjoy durable solutions designed to stand the test of time
• Better Oral Health: Prevent future complications and maintain overall dental wellness
• Increased Confidence: Feel good about your smile in social and professional situations

Did you know? Regular dental visits can help detect issues early, often preventing more extensive treatment later.

Understanding the procedure helps patients feel more confident and prepared.

Now that you understand the benefits, let’s explore how the process works.

Why Choose East Wind Dental Care

Choosing the right dental practice makes all the difference in your treatment outcome.

Experienced Expertise
Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) brings extensive training and years of experience to every procedure. His commitment to continuing education ensures you receive care using the latest techniques and best practices.

Advanced Technology
We invest in cutting-edge dental technology to provide more accurate diagnoses, more comfortable treatments, and better outcomes for our patients.

Patient-Centered Care
From your first phone call to your follow-up visits, our team prioritizes your comfort, convenience, and satisfaction. We take time to listen to your concerns and answer all your questions.

Comprehensive Services
As a full-service dental practice, we can coordinate all aspects of your care under one roof, providing continuity and convenience.

Community Trusted
Proudly serving Hillsboro, Beaverton, Aloha, Tanasbourne, and Orenco Station, we’ve built our reputation on exceptional care and lasting relationships with our patients.

Did you know? Modern dental technology allows us to plan your entire treatment digitally before we even begin.

Many patients ask similar questions. Here’s what you need to know:

Many patients ask similar questions. Here’s what you need to know:

Frequently Asked Questions About Sedation Dentistry

Is sedation dentistry safe?

Yes, sedation dentistry is very safe when administered by a trained professional following established protocols. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) has extensive training in sedation dentistry and follows strict safety guidelines. We continuously monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure and maintain emergency equipment and protocols.

Will I be unconscious during sedation?

With the sedation options we offer, you remain conscious and can respond to instructions. With nitrous oxide, you’re fully aware but relaxed. With oral conscious sedation, you’re drowsier and may drift into light sleep, but you can be easily awakened.

Will I feel any pain during the procedure?

No. Sedation works alongside local anesthetic. While sedation relieves anxiety and helps you relax, local anesthetic ensures you don’t feel pain during the procedure. You’ll be completely comfortable throughout your treatment.

Will I remember the procedure?

With nitrous oxide, you’ll have normal memory of the procedure, though you’ll feel relaxed and unconcerned during it. With oral conscious sedation, most patients remember little to nothing about the procedure due to the amnesia effect of the medication.

How long does sedation last?

Nitrous oxide effects wear off within 3-5 minutes after the mask is removed. Oral sedation effects last several hours, with drowsiness gradually diminishing over 4-8 hours. Some residual effects may persist for up to 24 hours.

We believe in transparent pricing and flexible payment options.

Let’s discuss the financial aspects of your treatment.

Can I eat before my sedation appointment?

With nitrous oxide, you can eat normally before your appointment. With oral conscious sedation, you should not eat solid food for 6 hours before your appointment, though small sips of water are acceptable.

Can anyone receive sedation dentistry?

Most patients are good candidates for sedation, but certain medical conditions may preclude it or require special precautions. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) reviews your medical history and may consult with your physician to ensure sedation safety.

How do I know which type of sedation is right for me?

Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) will recommend the most appropriate sedation based on your anxiety level, the complexity and length of your procedure, your medical history, and your personal preferences. We’ll discuss the options and answer all your questions.

Experience Comfortable, Stress-Free Dental Care

You don’t have to let fear or anxiety prevent you from achieving optimal oral health. Sedation dentistry at East Wind Dental Care makes dental treatment comfortable and stress-free, even for the most anxious patients.

Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) and our compassionate team are committed to providing gentle, patient-centered care in a safe, welcoming environment. We take time to understand your concerns, answer your questions, and ensure you feel completely comfortable with your treatment plan.

Schedule a consultation today to discuss how sedation dentistry can help you receive the dental care you need without fear or anxiety. Contact East Wind Dental Care at (503) 614-0198.

East Wind Dental Care
Hillsboro, Oregon Phone: (503) 614-0198

Comfortable dentistry. Beautiful smiles. Peace of mind.