Fear-Free Endodontic Treatment
We understand seeing a dental specialist can be a stressful and anxiety-inducing experience. To keep our patients comfortable, we offer sedation options to accompany common endodontic procedures, including root canal therapy, endodontic retreatment and apicoectomies.
The goal of sedation is to help our patients take the edge off and put them in a relaxed but conscious state. This is ideal for patients who have:
- Fear or anxiety over the procedure
- Previous traumatic dental experiences
- Difficulty achieving numbness
- A bad gag reflex
- Very sensitive teeth
- A fear of needles and shots
- An inability to sit still throughout treatment
How Does Sedation Work?
The two most common options for sedation are nitrous oxide and oral (pill) sedation. At Colorado Endodontic Group, we are happy to offer both options. Based on your procedure and situation, we can determine which is right for you.
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas): This is a very safe and common form of sedation. It is a conscious form that allows patients to be aware of what’s happening, but very relaxed throughout the procedure. This allows us to work on patients for a long period of time.
- Oral sedation (Valium): This is the only form of oral sedation we offer and is for high-anxiety patients only. It is also only an option for patients who are not currently prescribed Valium. If a patient is on Valium for any other reason, we are unable to use it during surgery as the effect will be lessened due to tolerance. A consultation will be necessary to see if this is an option for you. If you are interested, please request Dr. Hahn.
Note that patients who receive nitrous oxide are able to drive home after their appointment. Other forms of sedation may require arranging transportation.