Dental anxiety, ranging from mild apprehension to extreme aversion, affects millions of people nationwide. If you’re someone who has put off dental visits for years because of acute fear, we have a solution. Dr. Grinaldi, Dr. Fendley, and our team understand that dental anxiety is very real for many patients, and we have worked very hard to create a calm environment where you can relax. In addition to pampering our patients with comfort amenities, we offer several options for sedation dentistry.
Sedation dentistry has been used for decades to restore smiles and give patients peace of mind. We’ve seen firsthand the changes sedation dentistry can make for a person with failing oral health. In just one visit, we can turn back the clock on your smile, potentially performing many life-changing procedures while you remain comfortable in the dental chair. Dr. Grinaldi and Dr. Fendley offer:
Nitrous Oxide Sedation – Our mildest form of sedation, nitrous oxide involves a euphoric gas inhaled through a nose mask. Nitrous oxide dulls the senses and encourages relaxation. Normal sensation will return as soon as we remove the mask, so you can drive yourself to and from your appointment if this is the only sedation you receive.
Oral Conscious Sedation – Oral sedation involves a medication in pill form that you take prior to your visit. The medication will make you feel very drowsy, and many patients fall asleep during the appointment and awaken with little memory of the procedure(s). Patients who receive oral sedation must arrange for a ride to and from the office and should rest for the remainder of the day.
IV Sedation – Another form of “conscious” sedation, IV sedation allows the doctor to control the amount of sedation you receive. IV sedation encourages deep relaxation and may cause you to fall asleep during the visit. As with oral sedation, you will need to have a friend or family member drive you to and from the appointment.
General Anesthesia – Usually performed in a medical facility for maximum safety, general anesthesia is occasionally used for patients with extreme phobia. With general anesthesia, you will be completely unconscious during the entire procedure and will have no memory of the treatments performed. Dr. Grinaldi or Dr. Fendley will carefully evaluate your circumstances to determine if general anesthesia is right for you.
Your level of anxiety, the treatments you need, and your medical history will determine which method of sedation Dr. Grinaldi or Dr. Fendley recommends. As with all of our procedures, we will thoroughly explain what to expect on the day of your appointment, so you can feel confident in the care you receive.
An Invitation
Dr. Grinaldi and Dr. Fendley provide comprehensive dental care with a gentle, caring approach. If you live or work in the Dallas area, call to schedule an appointment with our team today. Our North Dallas dental office is convenient for patients from Richardson, Addison, and Carrollton.