DR. RAGSDALE’S DENTAL BACKGROUND
How did Dr. Ragsdale decide to become a dentist? He shadowed multiple dentists throughout his college career and had some very influential mentors during this time. After looking into other professional paths, he felt drawn to this field because of the constant, direct interactions with patients! He loves being able to help people not only achieve better health, but maintain it as well over time.
EXCEPTIONAL EDUCATION
After attending Brigham Young University for his undergraduate degree, Dr. Ragsdale pursued his Doctor of Dental Surgery at UT Health San Antonio School of Dentistry. He also completed an advanced residency in 2017, acquiring surgical and IV sedation skills. Today, he continues to focus his further training on these advanced areas so that he can offer patients and families here in Pasadena with the highest quality of care possible.
Dr. Ragsdale is currently a member of the following organizations:
- American Dental Association
- Texas Dental Association
- Academy of General Dentistry
- American Dental Society of Anesthesiology
Dr. Ragsdale helps our office by administering IV sedation while Drs. Nugent or West do dentistry. Also, Dr. Ragsdale will administer IV sedation while he does Wisdom Teeth extractions.
Dr. Ragsdale holds special anesthesia permits from the State of Texas to use IV sedation drugs. During his university-based hospital training, Dr. Ragsdale received extensive training in medical and dental aspects of anesthesia. Prior to your surgery, you can expect Dr. Ragsdale to give you a complete review and description of the specific types of anesthesia you will receive.
Intravenous “IV” Sedation
Intravenous sedation, also known as “twilight sleep” or conscious sedation, will put you in a safe, relaxed, and comfortable state throughout your surgery. It is the most effective means of reducing awareness and anxiety for dental procedures. It is administered through an intravenous line (IV), and is therefore much more predictable in terms of effectiveness due to the quick onset of action. Although the patient is technically conscious throughout the procedure, in most cases, they will be completely unaware of the dental procedure. The disadvantage of conscious sedation is, of course, the increased cost and the need for an escort home after the procedure. But, for the patient who wants to be “the most” comfortable during the procedure, it is certainly the best way to go.
OUTSIDE OF THE DENTAL OFFICE
Dr. Ragsdale is from McKinney, and he speaks three different languages. His wife, Jessica, and five children all enjoy the outdoors. He loves spending his free time embarking on adventures with his little kids, such as swimming, kayaking, hiking, biking, fishing, and simply exploring the world. His children even wear safari “adventure” vests, and they have a family theme song!
