At Garfield Dental in Traverse City, MI, Dr. Kristen Guptill and her caring team understand that dental visits can make many people feel anxious or uneasy. That’s why we offer sedation dentistry—a safe and effective way to help you feel calm and comfortable during your dental care. Whether you need a simple cleaning or a more complex procedure, sedation can make your visit smooth, stress-free, and even enjoyable.
Sedation dentistry uses carefully monitored medications to help you relax while we take care of your smile. It’s ideal for patients who have dental anxiety, sensitive teeth, a strong gag reflex, or difficulty sitting still for long periods. With our gentle approach and compassionate care, you can finally experience the dental treatment you need—without fear or discomfort.
Types of Sedation Dentistry
At Garfield Dental, we offer several levels of sedation to meet each patient’s comfort needs and treatment plan. Dr. Guptill will review your medical history and discuss your preferences before recommending the best option for you.
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide is a mild and fast-acting form of sedation that helps you feel relaxed while remaining fully awake and responsive. The gas is inhaled through a small mask over your nose and takes effect within minutes. Once your treatment is finished, the effects wear off quickly, allowing you to drive yourself home or return to your normal daily routine. It’s an excellent choice for patients with mild anxiety or those undergoing routine dental procedures.
Oral Conscious Sedation
For patients with moderate dental anxiety or those needing longer treatments, oral sedation offers a deeper level of relaxation. You’ll take a prescribed pill before your appointment, which will help you feel calm and at ease by the time you sit in the dental chair. While you’ll remain awake, many patients feel drowsy and remember little or nothing about the procedure afterward. Because the effects can last a few hours, you’ll need someone to drive you to and from the appointment.
Local Anesthetic with Sedation
Even if you don’t feel anxious, sedation can be combined with local anesthesia to enhance your comfort during procedures such as fillings, extractions, or crown placements. This combination ensures that you stay completely relaxed and pain-free throughout your visit.
Every sedation option at Garfield Dental is administered with your safety as our top priority. Dr. Guptill and her team are fully trained and experienced in sedation techniques, carefully monitoring your comfort and vital signs throughout the entire procedure.
Why Choose Garfield Dental
Choosing the right dental practice for sedation care makes all the difference in your experience. At Garfield Dental, we are committed to providing exceptional care in a welcoming, judgment-free environment.
- Experienced and Gentle Care: Dr. Kristen Guptill has years of experience helping patients overcome dental anxiety and receive the care they deserve with confidence and comfort.
- Personalized Treatment: We take time to understand your concerns and tailor sedation options to your specific needs.
- Modern, Comfortable Office: Our Traverse City dental office is designed to make you feel at ease from the moment you walk in. We use advanced technology and modern techniques for efficient, gentle treatment.
- Compassionate Team: From start to finish, our friendly staff provides reassurance, understanding, and support—because we believe your comfort matters just as much as your dental health.
When you choose Garfield Dental, you’re choosing a team dedicated to transforming the way you feel about visiting the dentist.
Request Your Appointment Now
If you’ve been putting off dental care due to fear, anxiety, or discomfort, sedation dentistry at Garfield Dental can help you take the next step toward a healthy, confident smile. Dr. Guptill and her team are here to make every visit a positive experience.
Contact us today at (231) 518-3715 or use our online appointment request form to learn more about your sedation options or to schedule a consultation.