Frequently Asked Questions about Painless Dentistry

At Endodontic Consultants of San Antonio, we understand that many patients are fearful of dental treatment in general and root canal treatment in particular.   For those patients, sedation makes a lot of sense.  Used in combination with effective local anesthesia (numbing), sedation allows patients to have a stress free, anxiety free dental experience.  At Endodontic Consultants, Drs. Rick Davis, Rick Schwartz and Zac Liang provide sedation dentistry to many of their patients.

Allow us show you dental treatment doesn’t have to be intimidating or stressful. Your comfort is our first priority, and we maintain the highest treatment standards. 

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry utilizes medications that reduce anxiety and induce relaxation.  Depending on the level of sedation, it may also induce sleep.  Sedation dentistry is sometimes referred to as “sleep dentistry.”. 

What are the different types of sedation dentistry?

We offer the most advanced sedation dentistry options to make your appointment positive, relaxing, and comfortable. Some of our patients have only mild anxiety but opt for sedation to make the appointment easier.  At the other end of the spectrum are those who have not been to a dentist for years and have severe dental phobia.  Both types of patients may benefit from sedation dentistry options.  The options include:

• Nitrous oxide: Often referred to as laughing gas, nitrous oxide makes you feel carefree and giddy and helps overcome mild dental anxiety. We administer this sedation through a small mask fitted over your nose. 
• Oral sedation: For this option you take a pill-based sedative that reduces your anxiety and alertness and creates a dream-like state. Many patients become so relaxed that they fall asleep! Oral sedation is simple yet highly effective for mild to moderate dental fear. 
• IV sedation: For patients with severe dental phobia, and for patients who are undergoing lengthy, extensive procedures, we sometimes recommend IV sedation. This form of sedation is generally used to “put patients to sleep.”

Who needs sedation dentistry?

Dental sedation is excellent for a variety of patients, including those with:

• Anxiety about going to the dentist
• Low tolerance to pain
• Difficulty sitting still for long periods
• Strong gag reflex
• Physical disability

 Goodbye, dental anxiety

You deserve world-class care and a comfortable, relaxed experience. For even the most anxious patient, we can deliver both with safe and effective sedation dentistry.  Sedation dentistry makes your appointments feel dream-like.  Patients who receive IV sedation generally have no memory of the appointment afterwards.  This is also often true with oral sedation.  Whether you have mild or severe dental anxiety, don’t delay dental care any longer. Please call (210) 405-0473 to schedule an appointment with our experienced dental team at Endodontic Consultants of San Antonio.

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