Do I Need Sedation Dentistry for a Root Canal?

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.

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The Dental Anesthesia Center: Sedation and Sleep Dentistry4.9

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Judy N.

Dr. Thoms and everyone of his staff members are incredible. I was warmly welcomed and made to feel comfortable and relaxed. Which is saying something as I had not been to the dentist in years due to fear/anxiety.
My procedure was clearly explained. The office staff was beyond helpful with payment and insurance.
The day of my appt was exactly as planned. We started ahead of schedule! The technicians and assistants were clearly skilled and again, helped ease my nervousness. We finished all work as planned. And then Dr. Thoms sat with me and my husband to discuss “everything.” He is very thorough. And finally one of his staff wheeled me down to the elevator, out across the parking lot, and helped me into my van. Now that is service!
Around 8:30 p.m. my cell phone rang and it was Dr. Thoms calling to check up on me. Wow!!!!! This man has all you could want in a dentist—kind, compassionate, thorough, understanding, excellent communicator, and skilled.
I cannot come up with the best words to so highly recommend the Dental Anesthesia Center. It was a remarkable, yet simple, but thorough experience for me.
If you are putting off going to the dentist and have anxiety or fears please call them. They will gently and competently take care of you.
And no, this is not an advertisement/ commercial—I am a real live (satisfied) patient.

Deborah L.

The practice is top notch. Could not ask for better care.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re grateful for your feedback and are proud to provide high-quality care in a supportive environment.

Chris C.

Great practice and nice people. I've been going there for 25+ years!!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for the kind review ! We appreciate that beyond words! It has been our pleasure having you as our patient! We look forward to seeing you at your next dental visit!

Melinda B.

Dr. Hoffman and staff were patient and kind. They listened to health history that led to needing their services. They made the care plan individualized to specific needs. Appreciate all the team members!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful review! We’re glad to hear that our team took the time to listen and provide compassionate, individualized care. We truly appreciate your kind words and your trust in our team.

Sheila I.

What a wonderful, knowledgeable, caring staff. Excellent care given to our 26 year old special needs son. They made everything so easy and kept me updated through the whole visit. Would highly recommend.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and recommendation! Our team works hard to provide compassionate, high-quality care and to keep families informed every step of the way. We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience.

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.

Read more: Root Canal Post-Op Instructions