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Dental Sedation

Comfortable, Stress-Free Solutions For Anxious Patients

Understanding Dental Sedation | Types of Sedation Options | The Sedation Process

Dental Sedation Saco, ME

Understanding Dental Sedation

Comfortable, Stress-Free Dental Care

At Maine Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center, we know that visiting an oral surgeon can be stressful for many people. Whether it’s for a tooth extraction or more complex procedure, we want every patient to feel calm and cared for. That’s why we offer dental sedation—a range of options to ease anxiety, reduce discomfort, and make surgical visits a positive experience.

Dr. Harriman and our caring team take the time to understand each patient’s needs, creating personalized sedation plans to ensure their comfort. By referring your patients to us, you’re giving them the opportunity for a relaxed and worry-free surgical experience that builds trust and satisfaction.

Sedation Options Saco, ME

Sedation Options

Finding the Best Solution for Your Comfort

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Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

Nitrous Oxide, or laughing gas, is a gentle sedative inhaled through a mask placed over the nose. It helps patients feel calm and relaxed while staying awake and aware. Ideal for both children and adults, nitrous oxide works quickly and wears off just as fast, so patients can resume their normal activities shortly after their appointment. We carefully adjust the dosage to ensure every patient feels at ease throughout their procedure.

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Oral Sedation

For patients with moderate to severe anxiety, oral sedation can make all the difference. With this option, patients take a prescribed medication before their visit, helping them feel deeply relaxed but still alert and responsive. Dr. Harriman provides clear instructions for taking the medication safely, and because its effects can last a few hours, patients will need someone to drive them to and from their appointment. Oral sedation is a simple and effective way to help patients feel comfortable enough to get the care they need.

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IV Sedation / General Sedation

IV sedation provides the deepest level of relaxation in a dental setting, making it a great choice for patients with significant dental fears or those undergoing more extensive procedures. Administered through an IV, this method creates a sleep-like state while patients remain responsive to verbal cues. Throughout the procedure, our trained team closely monitors vital signs to ensure safety and comfort. Patients often feel like the time passes in an instant, making even complex treatments feel manageable.

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Helping You Feel Comfortable and Cared For

If you experience dental anxiety, we can help. Dr. Harriman at Maine Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center will assist you in exploring our sedation options and make your next dental visit a calm and comfortable experience.

Appointments
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Anxiety-Free Oral Surgery Saco, ME

The Sedation Process

What to Expect from Start to Finish

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1. Initial Consultation and Assessment Every sedation journey starts with a personalized consultation. Dr. Harriman takes the time to understand the patient’s medical history, anxiety levels, and dental needs to recommend the best sedation option. We walk patients through each choice, answering their questions and helping them feel confident about their plan. 2. Pre-Procedure Preparation Before the procedure, patients receive clear, step-by-step instructions based on their chosen sedation method. For oral sedation, we guide them on when to take their medication and any dietary restrictions. For IV sedation, we explain the process thoroughly to put them at ease before their visit. 3. Administering Sedation On the day of the appointment, our skilled team ensures patients are comfortable and safe while administering the chosen sedation. Whether it’s nitrous oxide, oral medication, or IV sedation, we continuously monitor patients’ vital signs and adjust sedation levels as needed for a smooth, worry-free procedure. 4. During the Procedure With sedation in place, patients can fully relax while our doctor performs the dental treatment. Whether it’s a routine cleaning, a filling, or surgery, sedation allows patients to have a positive experience free from anxiety or discomfort. 5. Post-Procedure Recovery After the procedure, patients are given plenty of time to recover as the sedation wears off. For deeper sedation like IV sedation, we ensure they’re fully alert and comfortable before leaving the clinic. We provide clear post-procedure care instructions and are always available for follow-up questions. If needed, we help arrange transportation to ensure patients get home safely.

Relax With Sedation Dentistry

Appointments

Sedation Oral Surgeon Saco, ME

Our Comprehensive Services

Comprehensive Care for Every Aspect of Your Oral Health

IV Sedation and General Anesthesia

IV Sedation and General Anesthesia

For patients feeling anxious, we offer sedation options designed to fit each person’s needs. Our team at Maine Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center knows how important it is for patients to feel at ease, so we create a calming experience from beginning to end. Send your patients to us for stress-free care.

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Phobias

Phobias

We understand that dental visits aren’t easy for everyone. Dr. Harriman and the team at Maine Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center are dedicated to creating a friendly, welcoming environment where even the most nervous patients can feel at ease.

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Oral Pathology

Oral Pathology

Oral health is a vital part of overall health. At Maine Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center, we specialize in diagnosing and treating oral conditions, from infections to oral cancer. We’re here to provide patients with the care and support they need for a healthier future.

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Safe Dental Sedation Saco, ME

Frequently Asked Questions

Here to Answer Your Questions

  • Sedation can be helpful for a wide variety of dental procedures, from routine cleanings and fillings to root canals, extractions, implants, and even complex oral surgeries. It’s especially beneficial for patients with dental anxiety, those facing lengthy procedures, or individuals who find it difficult to sit still for extended periods.

  • Yes, dental sedation is very safe when administered by trained professionals. At Maine Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center, Dr. Harriman and our team follow strict safety protocols and closely monitor vital signs throughout the procedure to ensure your well-being. We customize sedation plans based on your specific health needs and comfort levels, so you can feel confident and relaxed during your visit.

  • We offer several sedation options to meet a variety of needs:

    • Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): Perfect for mild relaxation during less invasive procedures.
    • Oral Sedation: Ideal for patients with moderate anxiety, offering a deeper sense of calm.
    • IV Sedation: Provides deep relaxation for extensive procedures or significant dental anxiety.

    Each option is tailored to make sure your patients feel comfortable and at ease throughout their treatment.

  • Dental sedation at Maine Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center is safe when provided by our experienced team. Side effects are generally mild, such as slight drowsiness or nausea, and typically fade quickly. Dr. Harrimanensures thorough monitoring during the entire process and follows strict safety guidelines to minimize any risks. Your safety and comfort are always our top priorities.

office hours

Mon - Thu 8-5pm

Friday 8-12pm

Saturday Closed

Sunday Closed

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(207) 282-6139 Request Appointment
  • 23 Water St. Saco, ME 04072

Saco, ME Premier Oral Surgery

Our Patients Love What We Do

Check out what our happy clients are saying.

A Personal Touch

My son had his wisdom teeth removed last month. Dr. Harriman called me personally to schedule the appointment and explained the procedure and what to expect before during and after. The staff was so friendly and answered all my questions and after care. They called me that evening to check on him and a few days after. He did not have stitches so the site looked odd this was about 2 weeks after this was on a Friday I called the office and Dr. Harriman called me back right away. I sent him pictures and it was normal. But he offered to see him Saturday morning on his day off. I wasn't worried and everything turned out fine. I am so grateful for the kindness and attentiveness of the doctors and office staff at this office. I highly recommend them.
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Nicole S., Saco, ME

A Simple Thank You

I came here on a referral for wisdom teeth removal. On my consult, the team as well as Dr. Harriman answered all of my questions and set my mind at ease. Fast forward to my procedure. The staff was amazing and kept any anxiety I had at bay. I can't praise Dr. Harriman enough for how great his bedside manner is. Thank you for getting me through this.
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John T., Saco, ME

Where to Begin?

I don’t even know where to begin. I was referred here to get some extensive dental procedures done, and I have never felt more comfortable and well taken care of anywhere else. Dr. Harriman is extremely kind and caring. He is incredible at what he does! I have very high anxiety and he has always been so patient and supportive of what I needed. I truly cannot thank him and his staff for everything they have done for me. So thankful I was referred to him! Also big shout out to Shay one of the assistants there, she is also so incredibly kind and I also want to thank her for always being so helpful. She always makes me feel better when she is in the room with me! Thank you all so much!
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Breezy L., Saco, ME

Fast, Easy, Friendly

Great service. Fast easy and friendly. Worked with your budget. Didn’t even know it was happening until I woke up. Thank you for such such great work. Recommend you to others.
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Mary L., Saco, ME

Oral Surgery Center Saco, ME

Professional Accreditations

Here are the organizations Dr. Harriman is affiliated with

American academy of oral and maxillofacial surgeonsAmerican board of oral and maxillofacial surgeonsAmerican Dental Association logo and accreditation badgeMaine dental association
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