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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Patricia R.

I am unusually tense about my appointments. However, from the moment I checked in I relaxed. The staff was welcoming and assuring, and helped me to relax completely. Dr. Hofmann is superb. He is by far the best dentist and dental surgeon I have ever ever experienced.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad our team helped create a welcoming and comforting experience. We appreciate you sharing your feedback!

Arijeta R.

I cannot thank this clinic enough for their amazing care. They completely accommodated my individual needs by letting him wait in the hallway where he had more room for his feet and space to pace. Instead of forcing him into a tiny exam room, the dentist came out to the hallway to check his mouth. It made the entire visit so much easier for him. Fantastic service!

Response from the owner:Thanks so much for your kind words! We're grateful for the opportunity to provide compassionate, individualized care and appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. Wishing you all the best!

Arijeta R.

Great experience! The staff went above and beyond to make my individual comfortable. They let him wait in the hallway so he could pace instead of staying in the crowded waiting room. The dentist even examined him right there. Highly recommend this accommodating team! Fantastic service!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful review! We're honored by your recommendation and are committed to providing compassionate, individualized care for every person we serve. We truly appreciate your kind words!

Bradley W.

Calm, peaceful, respectful, kind

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind review! We appreciate your thoughtful words and are grateful you took the time to share your experience with our team.

Mike L.

These guys are fantastic! If you are not going to the dentist because of a bad or painful experience this is the place to go.I was one of those people not going for way too long out of fear and anxiety. One day I had a horrible tooth ache, I put it off too long, the pain was unbearable and I didn`t have a dentist.Thank God I found The Dental Anesthesia Center. Don`t wait for this to happen. I have been a patient now for last fifteen years and I highly recommend you going here. You will be glad you did. The whole staff is the best. .

Response from the owner:Mike, We are so glad you found us and to hear that our team is able to make you feel completely comfortable at the dentist. 🙂 Its our pleasure to have you as a patient! Thank you so much for your kind review! See you at your next dental appointment!

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