Sedation Dentist in Carrollton, TX
Experience freedom from dental anxiety with Sedation Dentistry from your dentist in Carrollton. Sedation is the use of medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. Sedatives can be administered through a mask (Nitrous Oxide or Laughing Gas), orally (Oral Sedation), or directly into the blood stream (IV sedation). Each method of sedation produces different levels of relaxation. The right type and amount of sedative will be determined based on your level of anxiety, condition, medical history, age, and other factors. Dr. Proctor is an experienced sedation dentist. He has been providing sedation procedures for his patients for 30 years.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide or laughing gas is actually offered free of charge at our Carrollton, TX office — not many other dental offices can say that! It is one of the most commonly used sedatives in dental practices. The colorless, sweet-smelling gas is pumped through a small mask placed over your nose. The calming effects appear almost immediately and disappear a few minutes after the gas is turned off. You are entirely conscious during treatment, but you may feel a bit groggy or sleepy. Nitrous oxide produces mild levels of sedation and is ideal for patients with mild anxiety. Most patients prefer this sedation method, so they can relax throughout their entire dental treatment.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedation refers to sedative pills taken by mouth about an hour before the procedure. Sedatives can make you sleepy, but you are still conscious and can be easily awakened by your dentist. Once treatment is completed, many patients have little or no memory of the procedure. Because the calming effects of oral sedatives can linger, you must bring someone with you to take you home. This method produces a deeper level of sedation than nitrous oxide and is recommended for patients who are moderately anxious and those who are afraid of needles. The sedative effect lasts throughout the appointment and for several hours afterwards.
IV Sedation
IV sedation produces a deeper level of relaxation than oral sedation. Sedatives delivered through the vein work faster than inhaled or oral sedatives. The results are also more predictable, and it is easier to adjust the dosage if necessary. IV sedation is recommended for severely anxious or fearful patients. At his office in Carrollton, Dr. Proctor works with an experienced sedation dentist to provide safe and effective IV sedation for his patients.
Dr. Proctor is pleased to offer sedation dentistry for a comfortable dental experience. Call 972-492-2866 to learn more or make an appointment online.
