Relaxation Dentistry

   HADC realizes that dentistry can be a very trying experience for the fearful patient. We always explain what your condition is, and what needs to be done to correct the problem. Patient consent is always obtained before any procedure is started. Our friendly staff is always there to answer any questions, or comfort you in any manner necessary. Nitrous Oxide or laughing gas is offered to help relax the anxious patient. Nitrous oxide is a very safe gas which only works while one is actively breathing the gas through a mask. You can drive home after a procedure using nitrous oxide. Blankets and personal radios are also offered for your comfort

   For the fearful patient who is too anxious to proceed with dental work, enteral conscious sedation can be used. This entails taking medication before the appointment, and using nitrous oxide during the appointment. This will keep the patient in a very "relaxed state" which allows Dr. Petrutsas to perform the necessary work. (You may have seen advertisements for "sleep dentistry" but we feel this does not accurately describe what can be expected from enteral conscious sedation.) After this procedure, the patient would be required to have a ride home, and have someone available to watch them. HADC uses a vital signs monitor to constantly monitor the patient during the entire procedure. In 2002, the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners required dentists that provide enteral conscious sedation to be certified. Dr. Petrutsas has taken the continuing education course with a comprehensive review of office emergencies, and has the permit from the Texas Sate Board of Dental Examiners.