If you suffer from dental anxiety, you are not alone –
approximately 9% to 15% of Americans struggle with this fear. Although you may
know intellectually that a visit to the dentist is nothing to be afraid of,
emotionally, you cannot overcome this hurdle. Even a routine cleaning may
become a source of worry and stress, and you may have put off dental treatment
for years because of your concerns. Fortunately, Dr. Quinn Smith, your Grand Prairie dentist, understands the
stress that dental anxiety can cause. For this reason, he offers gentle,
effective sedation dentistry, enabling you to receive the dental care you need
with as little stress as possible.
Types of Sedation Available
Dr. Quinn offers three types of sedation, and he will help
you select the best method, based on the degree of your anxiety and the
treatment you are receiving.
·
Oral
sedation: This is the mildest type of sedation, and you may choose this
method if you only suffer from mild dental anxiety. Dr. Quinn will prescribe a
limited dose of valium prior to treatment. You will take one pill the night
before to help you sleep, and you may take another pill the day of your
treatment. You should carefully monitor your reaction to the drug and ask someone
to drive you to and from the dentist’s office, if necessary.
·
Nitrous
oxide: If you select this method, you will breath in a clear, odorless gas
delivered through a mask. You will experience a sense of euphoria and calm, and
you may feel some heaviness or tingling in your arms and legs. Many patients
become talkative and giggly, which is why nitrous oxide is more commonly called
“laughing gas.” Nitrous oxide wears off quickly, so you will be able to drive
yourself home soon after treatment.
·
IV
sedation: If you suffer from severe dental anxiety, or if you are having a
lengthy procedure, Dr. Quinn may prescribe IV sedation. This type of
sedation induces a “twilight sleep.” You will be able to answer questions and
follow instructions by the dental staff. However, when the medicine wears off,
you will have very little memory of the procedure, if any. To ensure your
complete safety, Dr. Quinn works with a registered anesthesiologist, who will
administer the medication. If you select this method, you will definitely need
to have a friend or family member drive you home.
Each of these three types of sedation will leave you feeling
comfortable and relaxed, enabling you to receive the dental treatment you need
to retain your beautiful, healthy smile.
About Dr. Quinn
Smith: Dr. Quinn Smith is a respected and experienced family dentist in
Grand Prairie TX. He takes a patient-first approach that starts from the moment
patients enter the dental office and offers a three-year guarantee on all
dental work. New patients can schedule an appointment or a consultation with Dr.
Smith by calling 972-262-5111.
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