Sedation Dentistry
Sedation Dentistry for Endodontic ProceduresEndodontic procedures are commonly thought to be among the most painful dental procedures. While it is true that patients may experience some form of discomfort after a root canal, the treatment is not painful. At Duggan Endodontics, we offer sedation dentistry, ensuring that the procedure is pain-free. We understand the importance of providing our patients with a comfortable and anxiety-free experience. Why Is Sedation Dentistry Important?The primary goal of sedation dentistry is to help individuals who are nervous or anxious about dental care feel more at ease. This includes patients who require root canal therapy, endodontic surgery, or dental implants. Our sedation options allow patients to remain awake and relaxed, ensuring their treatment can be performed safely. Below are some of the standard sedation dentistry treatment options. Laughing Gas SedationNitrous oxide, commonly called laughing gas, is one of the most common sedation dentistry options for endodontic procedures. Nitrous oxide is a sedative that has been used for many years. It is administered over the nose through a gas mask and works quickly. It also wears off in a few minutes after being turned off. The downside of laughing gas sedation is that it wears off very fast, leaving the patient experiencing post-treatment pain. In most cases, a potent pain relief drug will be used after the treatment. Oral Sedation for Endodontic TreatmentAnother option for patients undergoing endodontic procedures is oral sedation. With this method, your dentist will prescribe a sedative medication for you to take about an hour before your appointment. The effects of oral sedation can last for several hours, which means you will need someone to bring you to your appointment and take care of you afterward. It is also important to note that if you choose oral sedation, you should plan to take the day off from school or work. You should avoid any activities that require concentration or attention for at least 24 hours. Intravenous (IV) SedationFor endodontic procedures, the recommended option is IV sedation and general anesthesia. IV sedation involves administering a sedative drug directly into the bloodstream through a vein. The sedation induces a state of relaxation, allowing the patient to remain conscious but without experiencing any pain. In cases where IV sedation is insufficient, general anesthesia may be administered. However, this is rarely necessary for most endodontic treatments. General anesthesia induces a state of unconsciousness so that the patient is entirely unaware of the situation. Endodontic Procedure Sedation FAQSIf you must get an endodontic treatment, you may also wish to know more about the procedure. Some of the common questions associated with this procedure and sedation are as follows: Is Nitrous Oxide Safe?Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is the safest sedation option. One of the main advantages of nitrous oxide is that it wears off rapidly, usually within a few minutes. What Are the Risks of Laughing Gas?While nitrous oxide is generally very safe, you may experience some side effects such as headaches, dizziness, balance problems, issues with cognition or memory. These typically go away in a few hours. Does Sedation Dentistry Put Me to Sleep?The only sedation that causes sleep is general anesthesia. The other options are mild but help eliminate any pain. By offering these sedation options, [Duggan Endodontics ensures you have a comfortable and anxiety-free experience. You can start your treatment with us today by calling our office at (512)-380-0777 to book an appointment. |
