If you are putting off a root canal due to fear or anxiety, it may lead to a serious infection.
For most patients, a root canal sounds overwhelming. The good news is that it doesn’t need to be. If you are afraid of the pain associated with a root canal, the good news is there is a way to have the procedure done with virtually no pain. Sedation dentistry turns a root canal procedure into a comparatively trivial matter. If a root canal is necessary and you are putting it off because of pain or anxiety, it may lead to a serious infection or an abscess.
All of the staff have been extremely incredible. Dr. Thoms was amazing & really helped calm me before my procedure. Dr. Thoms answered any & all questions I have had & was extremely understanding when it comes to having dental anxiety. Robyn was the best X-ray technician I have ever had. She felt personable but still extremely professional. Throughout my life I have been to numerous dentists in hopes of finding one that will take my extreme dental anxiety seriously & not make me feel bad for it. I have finally found my favorite dentist. The Dental Anesthesia Center is my #1 pick if I had to chose any dentist.
Response from the owner:Thanks for your kind words and for sharing your experience. We’re grateful for your trust in our team and are pleased to hear you felt supported and comfortable throughout your visit. We appreciate your recommendation and look forward to continuing to provide compassionate, patient-centered care.
Hands down the best dental office in the area! They have always taken care of me and been very accommodating. The Doctors are the BEST!!! I would HIGHLY recommend this office if you are looking for a dentist! 5+ stars all around.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review and recommendation! We’re grateful for your kind words and are thrilled to hear that our team has provided a positive experience. We appreciate your support and look forward to serving our community with exceptional care.
I started seeing this practice as a scared middle age woman that thought she was quickly on the way to being toothless. Years later now, still working with the amazing Dr Behl and her amazing staff, I have been able to continue with my present teeth. Alway kind, full of grace, mercy and humor!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful review. We’re honored to be part of your dental journey and appreciate your kind words about Dr. Behl and our team.
We have been taking our son to Dental Anesthesia since 2019. He gets his dental treatment and blood work done at the same time. We find the staff and Dr. Thoms highly professional. They communicate well and provide excellent treatment/services. Getting blood work done during sedation helps us a lot.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and for sharing your experience. We’re honored to be part of your family’s care. We appreciate your trust in us.
This was my first time coming to the Dental Anesthesia Center, recommended by my sister whose special needs son has seen Dr. Hoffmann for years. I have a very difficult jaw condition resulting from a car accident and Dr. Hoffmann made me feel so immediately at ease that I’ve scheduled some extensive dental work to be done later this summer. I also loved my nurse, Ashley, who was so attentive, sweet and knowledgeable. She made me feel not as an anomaly, but valued and validated, and I hope she will be with me during my upcoming surgery. Thank you, Dr. Hoffmann and Ashley, for welcoming me to your practice!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and for trusting our team. We’re honored to provide a welcoming, compassionate experience and will be sure to share your compliments with Dr. Hoffmann, Ashley, and the rest of our staff. We appreciate your support!
What is a Root Canal?
When you have a root canal, an opening is made in the crown of your tooth. The dentist removes the tooth’s pulp down to the tip of the roots. Once the infected pulp is removed, the dentist uses a filler to fill the tooth, and then an adhesive is used to ensure that the entire canal root of the tooth is sealed. Once the procedure is done, the dentist places a temporary crown on the tooth. You will then return for another appointment for a permanent crown to protect the tooth against further damage.
It can sometimes be a lengthy process, and since the dentist is dealing with the roots of your tooth, it can be highly sensitive and painful, so many patients avoid it. For a root canal, there are several options for dental sedation that will minimize any feeling you have and, in some instances, any memories you have of the procedure.
You can generally use nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation if you get a root canal. The sedation method for an individual is determined by the patient’s medical history and current physical and mental health.
Types of Sedation Available
Minimal sedation is the lightest level of sedation. It involves a mild sedative, such as a Valium-like medication or Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas.) Using this kind of sedation requires no additional training for the dentist. You can leave the office without any residual effects when the procedure is over.
Moderate sedation is referred to as “sedation dentistry.” This allows the patient to respond to questions. They are not asleep.
Deep sedation, or General Anesthesia Dentistry, is often called “Sleep Dentistry” (unconscious). This is generally the recommended level of sedation for individuals unable to tolerate dental treatment for mental or physical reasons. Using this method, there is no memory of the procedure. Dentists who provide this method require a two-year Dental Anesthesiology Residency or an Oral Surgery Residency.
St. Louis Sedation Dentistry
The Dental Anesthesia Center is a state-of-the-art dental facility for patients who require general anesthesia, deep sedation, or oral sedation for their dental care. Young children unable to cooperate and individuals with mental or physical disabilities can benefit from these services.
Call us today at (314) 862-7844 to schedule an appointment. We look forward to meeting you!
