About Dr. Mellas
Dr. Mellas has been a resident of Arizona since 1975. He attended the University of Arizona studying Biochemistry, after which he earned his Doctorate of Dental Medicine degree from the Oregon Health Sciences University School of Dentistry in 1993. He is certified as a periodontist by the American Academy of Periodontology. Dr. Mellas completed his periodontal residency at the University of Texas at Houston in 1996 and received a Master of Science Degree and certificate in periodontics. Dr. Mellas’ clinical emphasis includes both non-surgical and surgical periodontics, oral medicine, periodontal plastic surgery, bone augmentation procedures, conscious sedation (sleep dentistry), and implantology. His approach is conservative, utilizing the most current technology in an ultra modern office with patient comfort being paramount to his patients dental experience. Dr. Mellas’ accomplishments have gained him numerous awards and recognition for his research and lecturing both nationally and internationally. Dr. Mellas is very active in the Arizona State Dental Associat ion, American Dental Association, American Academy of Implant, dentistry,the Southwest Society of Periodontists, and the American Academy of Periodontology.
Our goal is to provide all of our patients with a relaxed and comfortable setting for their periodontal care. Our experience has shown that when our patients are relaxed, they do much better during and after their periodontal treatment.
For this reason, we will tailor sedation methods to achieve an optimum comfort level for each patient.
Local Anesthesia
Because of our extraordinary gentle care most patients elect to be treated just with local anesthesia. We use very gentle injection techniques to achieve profound anesthesia. We will ensure that you are completely numbed before we commence any procedure.
Oral Sedation
In addition to local anesthesia, you may prefer to be lightly sedated for your procedure. Often we will prescribe oral sedatives to our patients, that are taken before the appointment. With this medication, most patient are relaxed sufficiently to fall asleep during the treatment.
Conscious IV Sedation
For the more difficult procedures, or for patients that experience significant anxiety during their dental visits we recommend IV conscious sedation. This procedure is performed by an experienced anesthesiologist who comes to our office. Medications specific for the patient’s needs are used during this procedure, to relax the patient through out the procedure. This type of sedation has a very safe track record and is a also a great option for patients on a busy schedule who wish to perform a number of procedures in one setting.
Pain Management
Pain management is a main focus of our practice. We perform a number of very specific procedures to ensure total comfort before, during, and after patient care.
These procedures include hypnosis, gentle and effective local anesthesia, gentle surgical techniques, micro-surgery and effective pain relievers dispensed after your care.
Most of our patients experience only minimal discomfort following their periodontal procedures.