Sedation
Oftentimes due to past dental experiences or overall fear of dental procedures a patient may request sedation to help alleviate anxiety and fear associated with root canal therapy. Our office offers multiple options to help ease your anxiety in addition to a calm and inviting treatment environment.
When sedation is required, Dr. Heyse will consult with you regarding your medical history and sedation needs to find the best option to alleviate any anxiety you have associated with your root canal experience. Sedation options do typically require longer appointments and can have separate fees from the root canal procedure. It is very helpful if you mention your interest in sedation to our front office when scheduling your initial appointment so that we can appropriately coordinate your sedation in addition to your root canal treatment.
Sedation options include:
- Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
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- Nitrous oxide is an odorless gas that is administered via a connection that is placed over your nose. The gas flow into your nose is controlled by the endodontic team to ensure the correct balance of comfort is achieved to proceed with your root canal procedure. The gas has a calming effect which aids with reducing anxiety however you remain completely conscious and alert during the procedure allowing you to communicate to Dr Heyse as needed. Nitrous oxide is fast working and has a fast recovery as well. Typically at the end of your procedure oxygen is administered to flush your system and you are able to resume regular activities and drive home. Nitrous oxide typically does not require you to have an escort to bring you to and from your appointment and is considered very safe for most individuals with little to no contraindications for administration although a thorough medical history review is required to assure it is a safe option for you.
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- Oral Conscious Sedation
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- Prior to oral sedation Dr. Heyse requires a consultation visit to review your medical history to assure you are a good candidate and review proper dosing of oral medications prior to your appointment. Oral sedation typically relaxes patients significantly more than nitrous oxide gas however are still conscious and responsive to commands during treatment. Oral sedation requires the patient to have an escort to and from their appointment as the drugs used have sedative effects that will last longer than the time it takes to complete your root canal procedure.
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- IV Sedation
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- IV sedation is when relaxing drugs are administered to you through a vein rather than orally. This technique offers the deepest level of sedation where patients are “put to sleep” for their root canal procedure or surgery. Dr. Heyse works with several doctors who visit his office and offer this level of sedation while he completes your root canal treatment. IV sedation requires a consultation with our office to get a thorough medical history prior to treatment.