What is a Sedation Dentist?

As a sedation dentist in Encinitas, Dr. McElroy is a certified member and graduate of the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation. He is trained to help fearful and anxious patients have the dental treatments they need with the aid of sedation. Dr. McElroy is certified to provide two different types of sedation dentistry: nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation. Depending on your level of fear or anxiety, Dr. McElroy will be able to select the type of sedation that is appropriate for you.

Dental Care with Nitrous Oxide

Some of our patients at Smiles by Design manage to get themselves to our office despite their anxiety, but then once they arrive those “abdominal butterflies” take flight! If this is you, then Dr. McElroy is likely to recommend nitrous oxide. Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide settles your nerves and creates an overall feeling of calm and relaxation throughout the body.

Once you’re seated in the exam chair, we’ll place a small plastic mask over your nose. As you breathe normally, a measured amount of nitrous oxide and oxygen are inhaled. In a matter of seconds, the gas enters your system and you begin to feel more tranquil. Then, when your appointment is over, the mask is removed and the effects wear off in a minute or two so you can go about your normal daily tasks.

Oral Conscious Sedation in Encinitas

For our patients whose dental fears are little more serious, there is oral conscious sedation. With this treatment, Dr. McElroy prescribes a mild sedative pill that you’ll take at a designated time before your appointment. Taking a sedative, of course, prohibits you from driving so you will need to ask a friend or relative to transport you to and from our office. During your appointment, you will be conscious so Dr. McElroy and his team can talk to you. However, many patients feel as if they’ve slept right through their dental care.

For a Sedation Dentist in Encinitas, Call Dr. McElroy

To learn more about sedation dentistry or to schedule a long overdue visit with the dentist, contact Smiles by Design in Encinitas, CA.

Encinitas Dentist for Teeth Cleanings, Pain-Free Dental Care, Gum Treatment, Dentures, Dental Implants, Invisalign, Teeth Whitening, Veneers, & More – Serving Encinitas, Carlsbad, San Marcos, Vista, Oceanside, Solana Beach, Del Mar, Rancho Santa Fe, Escondido & San Diego, CA